Turkish authorities have arrested 36 people in a major investigation into an alleged illegal egg trafficking network, following simultaneous operations across 14 provinces.
Turkey’s Justice Minister Akın Gürlek said 53 suspects were identified in the case, which allegedly involved links to Turkey, the occupied areas of Cyprus, Albania and Georgia.
Authorities have not disclosed the names of any clinics or doctors in the occupied areas who may be involved, nor have they clarified how many of the alleged transactions took place there.
41 women allegedly sold eggs 811 times
According to Gürlek, the investigation began after a complaint was submitted through CİMER, Turkey’s official platform for communication between citizens and public authorities.
The Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office in eastern Istanbul handled the case through its department responsible for investigating terrorism and organised crime.
After examining telephone records, financial information, travel data and other evidence, investigators allegedly found that Turkish women had travelled abroad to sell their eggs in exchange for payment.
The investigation reportedly identified 41 women who had carried out a total of 811 egg sales.
Who are the 53 suspects?
According to the Justice Minister, the 53 suspects facing legal proceedings include:
- One alleged leader of the organisation.
- Five alleged managers of the network.
- 41 women suspected of acting as egg donors.
- Two specialists in gynaecology and obstetrics.
- Four people allegedly responsible for organising travel.
Of the 53 suspects, 36 were arrested during the coordinated operations. One other suspect was found to be already in prison.
Authorities are continuing efforts to locate and arrest the remaining suspects. Seven are believed to be abroad.
Turkish minister vows to target alleged exploitation
Gürlek said the Turkish government would continue its efforts to combat criminal organisations that make illegal profits by exploiting the human body.
He said authorities were seeking to uncover all the network’s connections, identify those responsible and bring them before the courts.
The minister also thanked the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office in eastern Istanbul and the police units involved in the operation.
The investigation remains ongoing. The allegations and the responsibility of those involved will be determined by the competent judicial authorities.
Also read: Occupied Cyprus: IVF clinic on blacklist since 2016
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