Turkish authorities have arrested 121 individuals across multiple provinces in a sweeping operation targeting illegal liquor production, the country’s Interior Ministry announced on Monday. The coordinated raids, carried out over several days, led to the seizure of large quantities of counterfeit alcohol, production equipment, and materials used in unlicensed distillation.
The arrests are part of Turkey’s ongoing efforts to combat the spread of illegal and potentially lethal alcoholic beverages, which have been linked to serious health risks, including blindness and death. Authorities revealed that many of the operations were taking place in unregistered facilities, residential apartments, and warehouses.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that the operation was necessary to protect public health and uphold the rule of law. “The production and sale of illicit liquor is not only illegal but also endangers countless lives. This operation demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding communities across the country,” he said.
Illegal liquor is often produced with industrial alcohol or unsafe additives, which are cheaper but highly toxic. In recent years, Turkey has seen a rise in methanol poisoning cases, particularly among low-income individuals who may be priced out of the legal alcohol market due to rising taxes and inflation.
Analysts suggest the growing black market for alcohol is partly driven by economic hardship and strict regulation of the legal alcohol industry. “There is a real public health dimension here,” said Dr. Selin Aksoy, a public health expert based in Istanbul. “While enforcement is crucial, there must also be broader discussions about access, education, and the root causes of why people turn to unsafe alternatives.”
Officials confirmed that the seized products will be destroyed and that further investigations are underway to dismantle larger criminal networks involved in the trade.
The arrests send a clear signal that Turkish authorities are stepping up enforcement to prevent future tragedies and protect vulnerable communities. However, rights advocates are calling for more inclusive approaches that address both enforcement and prevention — including public awareness campaigns and support for addiction services.
As Turkey continues to face economic pressures, experts warn that the battle against illegal alcohol must go hand-in-hand with social and economic support systems to be truly effective.
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