Turkish police clash with ISIS militants in Yalova raid leaves officers and militants dead
Turkish police clash with ISIS militants in Yalova raid leaves officers and militants dead
A nighttime raid in Elmali district, Yalova Province, triggers a deadly clash with Islamic State militants, killing three police and six militants as security forces widen operations.
At around 2 a.m., Turkish police stormed a house in Elmali district, Yalova Province, suspected of sheltering Islamic State militants. The exchange of fire left three police officers and six militants dead, with eight other police officers and a night guard wounded. Special forces from Bursa Province were dispatched to reinforce the operation, according to officials.
The operation, which began around 2 a.m. and concluded at 9:40 a.m., was part of a broader crackdown. Five schools in the area were closed for the day, and authorities cut natural gas and electricity as a precaution while civilians and vehicles were kept away from the neighbourhood.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said five women and six children were evacuated safely from the house. He noted that the Elmali raid was one of more than a hundred simultaneous operations across 15 provinces, aimed at disrupting ISIS networks and plans.
Turkey has stepped up anti-ISIS efforts in recent years amid multiple security threats, including past attacks and ongoing counterterrorism campaigns. The government stressed its commitment to protecting civilians while pursuing suspects.
