Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organisation arrested a Turkish national accused of senior Daesh involvement.
Security sources confirmed the development on Monday. MIT detained the suspect abroad and returned him to Türkiye.
Authorities described the operation as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The case highlights Türkiye’s intensified focus on transnational terror threats.
According to security sources, MIT tracked the suspect through sustained intelligence work. The operation aimed to uncover Daesh activities and networks. Investigators followed the suspect’s movements across regions.
They linked him to overseas militant activity. This tracking led to his eventual capture.
Travel to Afghanistan–Pakistan Region
Investigators found that the suspect travelled from Türkiye to the Afghanistan–Pakistan region.
He allegedly joined Daesh after leaving Türkiye. Authorities said he became active within the group’s ranks.
He reportedly integrated into the organisation’s structure. His role expanded as his involvement deepened.
Training and Rise Within Daesh
Investigations revealed that the suspect received training at Daesh camps. He underwent armed and ideological instruction. Officials said he later rose to a so-called managerial position. This status indicated operational responsibility. Authorities viewed the role as significant within the group.
Identification of the Suspect
Intelligence units identified the suspect as Mehmet Goren. He used the code name “Yahya” within Daesh.
Investigators connected him to known operatives. They confirmed his identity through multiple sources.
The identification strengthened the case against him.
Links to Previous Detainee
Security sources said Goren worked alongside Ozgur Altun. Altun is also known as “Abu Yasir al-Turki”.
Authorities previously detained Altun and brought him to Türkiye. The link helped map Daesh’s internal connections. It also confirmed coordinated activities within the group.
Facilitating Militant Transfers
Authorities accused Goren of facilitating militant transfers. They said he helped move Daesh members from Türkiye. The transfers targeted the Afghanistan–Pakistan region. Investigators described this role as operationally critical. Such actions supported the group’s regional expansion.
Alleged Suicide Attack Plans
Security sources said Goren accepted suicide attack assignments. Authorities accused him of targeting civilians.
The alleged targets included Afghanistan and Pakistan. Türkiye and Europe also appeared on the list. These claims elevated the severity of the case.
MIT determined that Goren survived air strikes in Pakistan. The strikes targeted Daesh elements in the region.
Afterward, he reportedly went into hiding. He avoided detection for a period. Intelligence teams continued tracking his movements.
Capture and Return to Türkiye
Following technical and physical surveillance, MIT located Goren. The agency launched a targeted operation.
Officers detained him without public disruption. They then returned him to Türkiye. Security sources confirmed the successful transfer.
During questioning, Goren provided extensive information. He discussed contacts with Ozgur Altun. He described his training within Daesh. He also detailed instructions to carry out suicide attacks.
Authorities said the disclosures proved valuable.
Broader Impact of the Investigation
MIT stated that the investigation thwarted planned attacks. It helped expose Daesh recruitment networks.
It also revealed operational planning details. Authorities said the findings strengthened prevention efforts.
The case marked a significant counterterrorism success.
Conclusion
Türkiye’s intelligence operation disrupted a major Daesh link. The capture demonstrated overseas operational capability. Authorities continue investigating associated networks. MIT remains focused on preventing future attacks. Officials reaffirmed commitment to national and regional security.
