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Iraqi suspect wanted for migrant smuggling arrested at Istanbul Airport

Security camera footage shows police officers questioning an illegal migrant with a bandaged head, in Istanbul, Türkiye, May 5, 2021. (IHA PHOTO)
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Security camera footage shows police officers questioning an illegal migrant with a bandaged head, in Istanbul, Türkiye, May 5, 2021. (IHA PHOTO)
June 15, 2026 10:23 AM GMT+03:00

An Iraqi national wanted internationally by Greek and Italian judicial authorities over alleged involvement in migrant smuggling networks has been arrested at Istanbul Airport, Turkish authorities said.

The suspect, identified by the initials S.M.M., 55, was also wanted in Türkiye on charges of “establishing an organization for the purpose of committing a crime” and “migrant smuggling,” according to information provided by the police.

Turkish police officers stand guard as flight attendants walk by at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 1, 2016. (AFP Photo)
Turkish police officers stand guard as flight attendants walk by at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 1, 2016. (AFP Photo)

Police track suspect before airport operation

Teams from the Istanbul Police Department’s Anti-Migrant Smuggling and Border Gates Branch launched an operation after determining that the suspect was expected to enter Türkiye.

Following technical and physical surveillance, police found that S.M.M. attempted to enter the country on June 13 using a fake passport. He was then taken into custody during an operation at the Istanbul Airport.

Suspect linked to Aegean Sea smuggling routes

Authorities determined that the suspect had allegedly taken part in migrant smuggling organizations targeting European countries via the Aegean Sea.

Because of these alleged activities, he was being sought internationally by judicial authorities in Greece and Italy.

After police procedures were completed, the suspect was referred to judicial authorities and later arrested.

June 15, 2026 10:23 AM GMT+03:00
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