In Hatay province, Turkey, a criminal network that extorted weekly payments of 7-15 thousand lira (approx. 270-560 manat) from shop owners and forced women into prostitution has been dismantled.
Police operations led to the detention of 39 suspects, 28 of whom were arrested.
Investigations revealed that gang members collected 'protection' money, coerced women into prostitution at massage parlors, and threatened those who refused to pay.
The organization was involved in 23 different incidents, including intentional injury, robbery, threats, usury, and abuse of official authority.
Searches at suspects' addresses uncovered weapons, ammunition, drugs, blank signed documents, and cash in various currencies.
