43 irregular migrants held in eastern Turkey

VAN, Turkey

Turkish security forces held a total of 43 irregular migrants in the eastern Van province as part of an operation against human smuggling, local police said on Tuesday.

The provincial security directorate said the operation was held in coordination with the National Intelligence Organization (MIT), adding all irregular migrants held were of Afghan origin.

A suspected human smuggler was also arrested and remanded in custody.

* Writing by Ali Murat Alhas