Turkish police launched simultaneous operations in 28 provinces across Turkey after the Chief Prosecutor’s Office in Ankara had issued arrest warrants for 78 suspects, including active-duty members of the Gendarmerie General Command, who allegedly have links to the organization.

Prosecutors determined that the suspected communicated with the group members via landlines or payphones.

While 51 suspects have been taken into custody, security forces are still looking for the remaining fugitive suspects.

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)