Turkish police launched simultaneous operations at the different addresses after the Chief Prosecutor’s Office in Istanbul had issued arrest warrants for 16 suspects, including active-duty members of the Turkish Armed Forces, who have alleged links to the organization.

While 12 suspects have been taken into custody, security forces are still looking for the remaining fugitive suspect.

Since May 2016, Turkey has classified the FETO organization as a terrorist organization 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)