International Drug Cartel Dismantled in Spain: Turkish Interior Minister Announces Major Operation
In a recent statement, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya revealed the dismantling of an international drug cartel led by Kerim Dağlıoğlu, who was on the INTERPOL Red Notice list. This significant breakthrough was achieved during the “ARGAY” operation in Spain, organized jointly by Turkish, Spanish, and French police forces.
The ARGAY operation, initiated approximately nine months ago and launched on June 11, was a large-scale effort against the drug cartel. The operation saw the involvement of over 400 officers from the French police, Spain’s Guardia Civil, and the Turkish police. Working shoulder to shoulder, Europol-supported Spanish, French, and Turkish narcotics units targeted the drug kingpins. The operations were conducted in several locations, including Granada, Malaga, and Seville.
Summary of the ARGAY Operation Outcomes:
* **Duration:** Approximately 9 months
* **Launch Date:** June 11
* **Participants:** Over 400 police officers from France, Spain, and Turkey
* **Locations:** Granada, Malaga, Seville
* **Seizures:** Over 2 tons of cannabis, numerous firearms, luxury vehicles, and cash
* **Arrests:** 42 cartel members from various countries, including Spain, Germany, Austria, Syria, Montenegro, Romania, Ukraine, Argentina, and Venezuela.
Minister Yerlikaya expressed his determination to combat organized crime at all levels, emphasizing that the fight against drug cartels is ongoing globally. “With the backing of Europol, our narcotics units from Spain, France, and Turkey have worked side by side in this historic international operation. Our nation should rest assured that we will not allow drug dealers to operate anywhere in the world. Congratulations to our heroic police forces and the Narcotic Crimes Division for their crucial role in this mission.”
The ARGAY operation marks a significant milestone in international law enforcement collaboration and demonstrates the committed efforts of various police entities in intercepting drug trafficking activities.