Ankara(The COW News Digital)Turkish authorities have arrested 115 suspected members of the Islamic State (ISIS) on suspicion of planning terrorist attacks during the year-end holiday season, officials confirmed on Thursday. The large-scale operation was carried out following intelligence reports warning of potential threats during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
According to the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the arrests were made after security agencies received credible intelligence suggesting that ISIS-linked individuals were preparing attacks targeting crowded public spaces and festive gatherings. Acting swiftly on the information, authorities authorized the detention of 137 suspects across multiple provinces.
In an official statement, prosecutors said coordinated raids were conducted at various locations, resulting in the capture of 115 individuals, while efforts were ongoing to locate and detain the remaining suspects. Those arrested have been taken into custody for further questioning as part of a broader counterterrorism investigation.
Turkish officials stated that the operation was aimed at neutralizing potential security threats and ensuring public safety during a period marked by large public events and increased travel. Law enforcement agencies have intensified surveillance and preventive measures nationwide as part of heightened security protocols.
Turkey shares an approximately 900-kilometer border with Syria, a region that has long been affected by militant activity. Despite significant territorial losses, ISIS continues to pose a security threat through sleeper cells and cross-border networks. Turkish security forces have frequently conducted counterterrorism operations to dismantle these networks and prevent attacks within the country.
The arrests come amid renewed concerns over ISIS activities in the region. Earlier this month, an attack in Syria attributed to ISIS reportedly resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and a civilian, underscoring the group’s continued ability to carry out deadly operations despite sustained military pressure.
Meanwhile, Syrian authorities announced a separate development in the fight against ISIS. According to Syria’s state news agency SANA, a senior ISIS commander was arrested in Damascus during a joint operation involving Syrian security forces and the U.S.-led international coalition.
General Ahmed al-Dalati confirmed that Taha al-Zoubi, also known as Abu Omar Tibyah and believed to be a key ISIS leader in Damascus, was apprehended along with several of his associates. Officials described the arrest as a significant blow to ISIS leadership and operational planning in the Syrian capital.
Security experts say the coordinated arrests in Turkey and Syria highlight ongoing regional efforts to curb extremist threats and prevent militants from exploiting instability. Authorities in both countries have vowed to continue intelligence-led operations to disrupt terrorist activities and maintain regional security.
