29.03.2026 15:20
Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi made a new statement regarding the APP license plates, which will begin inspections on April 1, sharing all the curious details. Emphasizing that the license plate issue is not just a matter of form, Minister Çiftçi stated, "If there is the seal of the authorized institution and other security marks, these plates are valid even if the letters and numbers are a bit thicker. No penal sanctions will be applied."
Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi answered journalists' questions regarding the agenda at the Turkey Press Federation program.
"WHAT IS THE STATE'S APPROACH TO APP PLATES?" Minister Çiftçi responded to the question regarding APP plates, "Recently, inspections and the sanctions to be applied have been intensely discussed. On one hand, it is stated that this is necessary for security and public order, while on the other hand, there have been some doubts among citizens regarding the scope of the implementation. How do you evaluate these discussions? What is the state's exact approach to APP plates; what kind of implementation framework will we see in the future?"
"Our aim has never been to penalize our citizens or to victimise them. We do not operate with an understanding that sees punishment as a method. The essence is to guide our citizens, show the right way, and ensure unity in implementation. The plate issue is not just a matter of form. It is an extremely important issue in terms of public safety, the peace of our country, and our general security strategies. Just as a person has an identity card that identifies them, a vehicle plate is the identity of a vehicle, and the letters and numbers on it are that vehicle's number. Just as our identity is regulated only by authorized institutions for our security, plates must also be obtained from authorized institutions in the same way."
"THE PLATE MUST HAVE TŞOF'S SEAL ON IT" Pointing out that there are certain security elements in plates just like in our identities, Minister Çiftçi said, "The plate must have TŞOF's seal on it. On the left side, there should be the TR abbreviation, which is our country's international sign. Additionally, plates have holograms, security strips, and repeating square boxes containing the crescent-star and TR security signs. From January 1, 2024, QR codes and a 12-digit serial number have also been added to the printed plates. However, I want to emphasize an important point here: The absence of a QR code on a plate does not mean it is fake. The presence of the seal and other security signs is sufficient for the plate to be compliant with standards and valid.
"THERE IS NO OBLIGATION FOR VEHICLE OWNERS TO RENEW THESE PLATES" Similarly, if the authorized institution's seal and other security signs are present on the plate, these plates are valid even if the letters and numbers are slightly thicker than the normal standard. Vehicle owners are not obligated to renew these plates. Our citizens can use their vehicles with these plates. No penal sanctions will be applied during traffic inspections due to these thick-lettered plates. The authorized institution here is the Turkish Federation of Drivers and Automobile Owners. Therefore, maintaining the standard is important. Because the number of vehicles is increasing every year. Since 2019, the total number of motor vehicles in our country has risen from 23 million 200 thousand to 33 million 900 thousand. The number of motorcycles has increased from 3 million 300 thousand to 7 million 200 thousand. Currently, the total number of registered vehicles is 34 million 525 thousand 761. It is extremely difficult to monitor such a large vehicle fleet effectively without a strong technological infrastructure and a standard plate system," he said.
"NON-STANDARD APP PLATES CANNOT BE DETECTED BY RADARS" Minister Çiftçi emphasized that the security vulnerabilities created by these plates should not be ignored, stating, "Non-standard APP plates cannot be accurately detected by electronic monitoring infrastructures such as radar systems, PTS (plate recognition systems), KGS (city surveillance systems), and EDS (electronic monitoring systems). This creates a serious security gap in the field. Because in every situation where the plate cannot be read correctly, the effectiveness of the inspection weakens; this poses a risk in terms of traffic safety, public order, and the peace of our citizens. More importantly, there is the possibility of this vulnerability being exploited by malicious individuals. Such non-standard practices pose serious risks in tracking actions that endanger traffic safety, disrupt public order, or constitute crimes. Our concern is to protect our citizens' peace and rights. This issue goes far beyond being a plate form; it is directly a matter of security, public order, and law.
Therefore, the issue here is not to create difficulties for our citizens. The issue is to maintain the standard. The issue is to conduct inspections effectively. The issue is to ensure transparency, accuracy, and reliability at every stage of our security system. We approach this issue with this understanding. We will continue to guide our citizens to prevent them from being victimized; but we will also meticulously maintain the necessary standard for the security of our country. Another point I want to highlight is this: The implementation regulation that will clarify the procedures and principles of some regulations introduced by law has not yet come into force. Therefore, some doubts that arise are not due to the purpose of the law; they stem from the process of clarifying the framework of the implementation with the regulation.
"WE WILL CARRY OUT THE PROCESS IN THE HEALTHIEST WAY WITHOUT VICTIMIZING OUR CITIZENS" For this reason, work on the regulation is being carried out meticulously. Until these works are completed, a guidance-based approach will be adopted in the field to prevent our citizens from being victimized. Issues that create doubts in practice will be made clearer, more understandable, and more uniform. The issues related to the image devices in the driver's monitoring and usage area are also being evaluated separately. Our fundamental approach is very clear; to establish a balance that is fair, reassures our citizens, and protects safety on the roads. We will carry out the process in the healthiest way without compromising security and without leaving our citizens in uncertainty," he stated.
IS THE MINISTRY OF TREASURY AND FINANCE REQUESTING TRAFFIC FINES? Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi gave a striking answer to the question regarding allegations that the Ministry of Treasury and Finance requested traffic fines to generate revenue for the budget. Minister Çiftçi said, "I have been a public servant for 29 years.I have never heard of any request from the Ministry of Finance until today. Such a thing is not the case. The Republic of Turkey is a rule of law state, and no one would resort to a situation that would constitute a violation of the law. I would like to point out that the number and amounts of penalties applied during the recent Ramadan Bayram holiday are behind the number and amounts of penalties applied during similar holiday periods in recent years," he said.
"WE REMOVED 102,476 DISPUTED SIGNAGE" Regarding the speed limit zone applications, Minister Çiftçi responded to the statement, "The speed limit restriction signs changing at very short distances are perceived as traps by drivers," by saying, "We have implemented a protocol with our Ministry of Transport to ensure uniformity in this matter. We have reviewed all speed limit signs and all signage that could cause confusion throughout Turkey. A total of 102,476 of the traffic signs that were the subject of such criticism have been removed. Additionally, 20,805 new signs have been added to eliminate confusion."
"GUARDS WILL BE ABLE TO TAKE ON DUTY AT SPECIFIC POINTS" In response to claims regarding the preparation of the Police Profession Law, Minister Çiftçi said, "As a father of a police officer, I know how important our police are in maintaining public order and establishing peace and security in our country, and how selflessly they work. We have a study that we plan to clarify next week. According to this study, we foresee a regulation that will allow guards working across our country to be assigned to areas where needed, instead of only working at night under the orders and management of the Governorship. Our neighborhood guards will be able to take on duty at points determined by the initiative taken in the provinces," he said.
Minister Çiftçi also mentioned that 10,000 police candidates will graduate from the Police Academy during this period, stating, "We will move the graduation schedule planned for September to the beginning of June. Thus, we will transition to a 12/36 hour working system across our country. We will implement regulations that will ease the working conditions of our police and boost their motivation," he said.
"OUR STANCE AGAINST STREET GANGS IS CLEAR" Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi stated, "Recently, operations against street gangs have intensified. How will you implement an action plan to combat these structures that particularly affect young people and try to gain visibility through social media? What are the latest efforts regarding street gangs?" In response, he said, "We announced to the public through our esteemed press members that we declared 2026 as the year of fighting street gangs. Our youth and children are our future. We cannot afford to lose even a single child. In this regard, our stance against these gang activities that try to push our children into crime is clear. We call out clearly and openly from here. They should turn back while there is still time because our state is extremely determined in this matter. I have given instructions to our police and gendarmerie organizations. We will be on top of all of them. Our operations will continue to increase. As you know, last week, we captured 358 individuals in a significant operation across Turkey and handed them over to justice," he replied.
"WE WILL BE UNCOMPROMISING AND DECISIVE ON DRUG-RELATED ISSUES" Minister Çiftçi stated that they will reflect the same determination in the field regarding the fight against drugs, saying, "In addition to our police and gendarmerie personnel, our Coast Guard and Intelligence units will increase their effectiveness in the field with tactical operations. Drugs are like a vein that feeds all crimes. Drugs are a multi-layered area of struggle for us. At the core of many issues that disrupt society and our family structure, especially the financing source of terrorism and gangs, lies drugs. The saddest part is that drugs particularly target our youth; they try to dry up their minds, hopes, and ideals. We are determined to dry up that source. We will be uncompromising and decisive on drug-related issues. We will not give them a breather.
Indeed, between January 1 and March 22, 2026, a total of 13 tons of drugs, 37.8 million synthetic drugs, and 13,000 cannabis-skunk plants were seized in the fight against drugs. This picture clearly shows how intense and determined our struggle in the field is. Therefore, we conduct our social policies with an understanding that particularly centers on the family, school, environment, and youth. Preventive education efforts, awareness-raising activities, guidance mechanisms, early warning and early intervention processes in the fight against addiction are extremely important to us. We see every step that will enable our youth to exist more strongly in sports, education, art, and social life as part of this struggle," he said.
PROVIDED INFORMATION ON THE LATEST SITUATION AT THE IRAN BORDER In response to questions about the irregular migration and border crossings from Iran to Turkey due to the war, Minister Çiftçi said, "Every crisis and conflict in our region inevitably concerns many issues, especially migration mobility and border security. Our greatest wish is for such war and conflict environments to end as soon as possible, for the parties to strengthen dialogue channels, and for lasting tranquility to be established. Turkey has long been a country that defends this line. Our esteemed President is conducting intense diplomatic traffic for the cessation of conflict, the prominence of diplomacy, and to prevent the region from experiencing new pains. Our hope is that these efforts yield results as soon as possible.
On the other hand, we do not see the issue of border security as a temporary topic that only comes to the agenda during crisis periods. Border security is always of strategic importance to us, continuously monitored, and managed in a multi-layered manner. Turkey is one of the strongest and most prepared countries in this area, with its physical security infrastructure, technological capabilities, human resources, and institutional coordination capacity. All units of our state work in complete coordination on this matter.
Indeed, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, we conducted inspections at our Gürbulak Border Gate and along our border line in Ağrı. We assessed the situation on the ground. As of now, there is no unusual situation along our border line. However, we have taken all our precautions.There is no ambiguity that would raise hesitation regarding our border security. We are closely monitoring the issue of crossings from Iran to Turkey. Currently, the Iranian side does not allow its citizens to exit. In contrast, there has been an increase in the return of Iranians in Turkey to their country compared to previous years. Therefore, from our perspective, the process is managed in a controlled manner, in coordination with all our relevant institutions. In summary; on one hand, we advocate for diplomacy for peace in the region, and on the other hand, we are resolutely implementing all measures regarding Turkey's border security without allowing any weakness," he said.
"591 OF THE MUNICIPALITIES GRANTED INVESTIGATION PERMISSION ARE FROM THE AK PARTY" Responding to allegations that investigations into municipalities were directed at opposition parties, Minister Çiftçi said, "After the March 31, 2024 elections, a total of 3,224 investigations have been conducted by the relevant units of our Ministry of Interior under reports, complaints, and special inspections. Investigation permission has been granted for 1,298 of these. Of these, 591 are municipalities from the AK Party. Investigation permission has been granted for 321 from the CHP, 102 from the MHP, 6 from the İYİ Party, 18 from the DEM, and 260 from other parties. According to this data, the municipalities with the most investigation permissions are those from the AK Party. This corresponds to approximately 46%.
"49 RESEARCH/INITIAL INVESTIGATION APPROVALS HAVE BEEN GRANTED REGARDING MANSUR YAVAŞ'S TERM" In response to the question, "What is the status of the investigations into the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality?" Minister Çiftçi stated, "Let me express the processes regarding the allegations against Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş. Since 2019, a total of 49 research/initial investigation approvals have been granted regarding various allegations and issues related to the term of Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş.
As a result of the research/initial investigations conducted by the inspectors, 22 initial investigation reports have been prepared by our Inspection Board. In these initial investigation reports, decisions have been made regarding 31 issues concerning Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş; 6 decisions for "Granting Investigation Permission" have been made. The 31 issues have been grouped under 6 headings. Of the 6 investigation permissions regarding the Ankara Metropolitan Mayor, 2 have been overturned by the Council of State. Additionally, decisions for 25 "Not Granting Investigation Permission" have been made regarding issues related to lower-level individuals where it was determined that there was no direct knowledge, signature, or approval from the Metropolitan Mayor. For other municipal officials, decisions have been partially made for "Granting Investigation Permission."
In cases where no elements of crime were found, 18 research reports have been prepared. According to general provisions, 12 referral reports have been sent to the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office for investigation. For actions to be taken according to financial legislation, 1 referral report has been sent to the Ministry of Treasury and Finance, and 1 compensation report has been sent to the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality for the recovery of the public damage incurred. The process regarding the 12 research/initial investigations conducted by the inspectors is ongoing. General inspections are continuing at the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality and its affiliated organizations as part of routine winter inspections.
"CONTROL MECHANISMS IN TURKEY ARE OPERATING EFFECTIVELY" We are representatives of a political understanding that confronts mistakes rather than covering them up, and corrects wrongs with determination. As our esteemed President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has stated, "Protecting the trust of the nation is our most fundamental responsibility, and we stand against anyone who makes mistakes, regardless of who they are," this principle is a guiding tenet for us. With this understanding; regardless of who they are or what position they hold, the state's stance is clear against anyone who undermines the rights and laws of the nation.
The current situation clearly shows that control mechanisms in Turkey are operating effectively, and the law is being applied with determination. In this process, no political identity and no position provides privileges to individuals. If there is a mistake, necessary actions are taken; if there is a deficiency, it is corrected without delay. Because the essence of our political understanding is to be worthy of the trust of our nation. For this reason, we view the ongoing investigation processes not as a subject of debate, but as a concrete indication of Turkey's democratic maturity, commitment to the rule of law, and institutional strength," he responded.