Turkey deploys counter-terrorism units against new generation crime groups

Turkish authorities are implementing new strategies to combat ‘new generation’ crime organizations that operate primarily through the internet. Minister Çiftçi announced that Counter-Terrorism (TEM) units will now be deployed to combat these groups, utilizing their specialized tracking and operational expertise.

These organizations differ from traditional mafia structures as they lack fixed locations, permanent staff, or rigid hierarchies. Instead, they use the internet to recruit members—often targeting children with promises of money, status, and belonging—and frequently operate with leaders located abroad. Their activities span various crimes, including cyber fraud, drug trafficking, extortion, and armed attacks.

Minister Çiftçi clarified that while these units are being deployed, this move does not legally classify these specific groups as ‘terrorist organizations.’ However, he emphasized that their ability to create social fear and pressure through visible violence necessitates a specialized security response.