Türkiye arrests six for alleged spying for Iran, targeting key air base

Turkish security forces have conducted a significant counter-espionage operation, arresting six individuals on allegations of conducting political and military espionage for Iran. The suspects, comprising one Iranian and five Turkish citizens, were detained in simultaneous raids across five provinces following an investigation led by prosecutors in Istanbul.

Espionage Ring Linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard

According to official statements and case files, the suspects were in direct contact with intelligence officers from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The group is accused of collecting highly sensitive information on Turkish military installations. A primary focus of their alleged espionage activities was the Incirlik Air Base, a critical NATO installation in southern Türkiye's Adana province. The base hosts US and allied forces and is a cornerstone of regional security strategy. Authorities allege the cell also targeted other high-security sites within Türkiye and in third countries, providing logistical support for these intelligence-gathering operations.

Reconnaissance, Drone Smuggling, and Direct Intelligence Transfer

The investigation uncovered a range of alleged activities by the group. Turkish authorities state the suspects carried out reconnaissance and surveillance missions focused on the Incirlik Air Base. Beyond information gathering, they are also accused of involvement in smuggling unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) through Turkish territory. These drones were reportedly intended for use against unspecified third countries. All intelligence and operational data collected by the cell were allegedly transmitted directly to their handlers within the IRGC, indicating a sophisticated and direct link to Iranian state security organs.

Nationwide Operation and Legal Proceedings

The coordinated arrests were the result of a joint operation involving the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, the Istanbul Police Counter-Terrorism Division, and the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT). Raids were executed simultaneously in the provinces of Istanbul, Van, Samsun, Yalova, and the capital, Ankara. Following their detention, the suspects were processed at local security directorates before being formally referred to court. A judge subsequently ordered all six individuals to be remanded in custody, facing serious charges of political and military espionage. The operation underscores Türkiye's ongoing vigilance against foreign intelligence threats and its willingness to act decisively against networks operating within its borders.