October 03, 2018•Update: October 05, 2018
By S. Ahmet Aytac
ANKARA
At least 97 irregular migrants were held across Turkey, security sources said Wednesday.
In the northwestern Balikesir province, the security units rounded up 28 migrants -- all Afghan nationals -- in Ayvalik district, said a security source, who asked not to be named due to restrictions on speaking to the media.
Separately in the northwestern Kirklareli province, 54 irregular migrants -- including Iraqi, Iranian and Afghan nationals -- were nabbed in Pinarhisar and Kofcaz districts.
Also in Bodrum district of western Mugla province, the coast guards held 15 migrants – including Syrian, Iraqi and Palestinian nationals.
All of the migrants were referred to provincial migration offices.
Turkey has been route for irregular migrants trying to cross into Europe, especially since when the Syrian civil war began.