In Istanbul-based operations, which were launched simultaneously in seven provinces, 19 suspects were arrested, Istanbul Governor’s Office said in a statement.

Among those arrested were senior managers and secret imams of the organization, according to the statement.

Since May 2016, the FETO organization has been classified as a terrorist organization by Turkey under the assigned names Fethullahist Terrorist Organization and Parallel State Structure. 

After the failed coup attempt in 2016, the government of Turkey blamed the group for the coup and authorities have arrested thousands of soldiers and judges who have links to the organization. (ILKHA)