Turkey detains 3 high-profile international criminals

(MENAFN) On Monday, Turkish authorities announced the apprehension of three high-profile criminals sought internationally for various serious offenses. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya revealed the arrests on social media platform X, highlighting the significant impact of these operations on global law enforcement efforts.

The first individual, Alexander Gustafsson, was captured in Istanbul. Gustafsson, who had entered Türkiye using a counterfeit Polish passport, was wanted by Sweden. His arrest followed an Interpol red notice issued for his involvement in drug trafficking, money laundering, doping, and forgery. His detention underscores Türkiye’s commitment to tackling international crime.

The second individual, Dragan Pavlicevic, was arrested in Istanbul on Sunday. Pavlicevic, sought by Montenegro, was also subject to an Interpol red notice. He faces charges related to drug trafficking and membership in a criminal organization. According to the red notice, Pavlicevic and his associates were involved in a substantial drug trafficking operation, including the shipment of 1.5 tons of cocaine through multiple countries—Montenegro, Colombia, Ecuador, Australia, and the Netherlands. He was additionally implicated in the transport of 900 kilograms (approximately 1,984 pounds) of cocaine sourced from Ecuador.

The third criminal, Alexandar Nedevski, was apprehended in the Bodrum district of Mugla province. Wanted by Sweden for money laundering and drug-related crimes, Nedevski had entered Türkiye with a counterfeit Kosovo passport. His arrest represents a significant achievement in Türkiye’s efforts to counteract organized crime and enhance global security cooperation.

MENAFN29072024000045015839ID1108492893