Turkey launches large-scale operations against suspected ISIS members

In a significant security crackdown, Turkish authorities have apprehended nearly 200 individuals suspected of being associated with the jihadist group ISIS in a series of operations across the country, just before New Year's celebrations, announced Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya on Saturday.

Yerlikaya conveyed through a message on social media that 189 suspects were arrested in 37 cities, with 27 in Ankara and 22 in Istanbul.

Over the past few months, Turkey has escalated its efforts to combat ISIS members within its borders. The group had claimed responsibility for several deadly attacks in Turkey, including the infamous nightclub attack in Istanbul on January 1, 2017, which resulted in the deaths of 39 people.

On Friday, authorities had already reported the arrest of 32 suspected ISIS members, including three significant figures within the group. These individuals were believed to be planning attacks, including ones targeting churches, synagogues, and the Iraqi embassy.

Last week, the Turkish police conducted a sweeping operation across 32 cities, leading to the arrest of more than 300 people on suspicion of having ties to ISIS.