29.04.2025 09:01
In operations conducted against counterfeit alcohol manufacturers in 81 provinces, 63,957 liters of fake alcohol and 96,992 bottles of counterfeit drinks were seized. A total of 137 suspects identified as producing counterfeit alcohol were arrested. The operations prevented a tax loss estimated at approximately 94 million TL.
The Minister of Interior, Yerlikaya, stated in a statement on his social media account that 63,957 liters of counterfeit alcohol and 96,992 bottles of illegal/counterfeit alcohol were seized in operations against "Counterfeit Alcohol Manufacturers" in 81 provinces, and noted that 137 suspects identified as producing counterfeit alcohol were apprehended.
"REPORT SUSPICIOUS SITUATIONS TO US"
Minister Yerlikaya, who said, "The sensitivity and support of our people are very important in our fight against counterfeit alcohol producers that threaten the health and safety of our society. Report suspicious situations to us. We will take the necessary actions," provided the following information regarding the operations:
PREVENTION OF 94 MILLION TL TAX LOSS
"In coordination with our Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices and the General Directorate of Security's Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime Department; as a result of the efforts made by the Provincial Police Departments' Anti-Smuggling Branch; in operations organized against individuals identified as producing counterfeit alcohol; 12 illegal alcohol production facilities were uncovered. 63,150 liters of ethyl alcohol, 96,992 bottles of illegal and counterfeit alcoholic beverages, 807 liters of illegal and counterfeit alcoholic beverages, 2,106 alcohol flavorings, 66,500 labels, 4,030 tax stamps, 9,109 empty bottles, and 88,376 caps were seized. In the operation, which also involved the regional units of the Revenue Administration, a joint assessment with the Revenue Administration resulted in the prevention of a tax loss of approximately 94 million TL in market value."
Minister Yerlikaya congratulated the Governors, the Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices coordinating the operation, and the police officers and employees of the Revenue Administration who carried out the operation.