The irregular migrants were discovered crammed into a van in the Kayapınar district, according to local sources.

The driver of the car was arrested on a charge of human smuggling, officials said, adding that the necessary procedures for the deportation of the migrants have been launched.

Historically, Turkey has been a country of origin, transit, and destination for migrants and was a crossroads between Europe and Asia.

Recent regional events have contributed to Turkey increasingly becoming a major destination and transit country for those fleeing conflict, poverty, and disasters.

Turkey hosts one of the largest migrant and refugee populations in the world. 

According to the official reports, the Turkish coast guard intercepted 21,473 irregular migrants in 2021, up from 19,368 in 2020. (ILKHA)