Istanbul Prosecutor's Office Dismantles Egg Trafficking Ring: 39 Arrested

The Istanbul Anadolu Public Prosecutor's Office, Terror and Organized Crime Investigation Bureau, in coordination with Istanbul Police Directorate's Human Smuggling and Border Gates Branch, carried out simultaneous operations across 14 provinces, dismantling an illegal egg-harvesting network operating along the Turkey-Northern Cyprus-Albania-Georgia route. The number of detainees has risen to 39.

The investigation began with a complaint filed to CIMER by a person alleging that his wife and her pharmacist lover were engaged in egg trafficking. The network was identified through analysis of electronic communication records, Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) data, and international travel information.

The network was headed by textile worker Hacer T., who along with business partner pharmacist Muammer T. allegedly procured eggs from 41 female donors at a cost of 60-80 euros per transaction and resold them abroad for 100 euros. It was determined that a total of 811 egg sales transactions were completed by the 41 donors. The investigation also identified 2 gynecologists and 4 travel organizers as suspects.

Legal proceedings have been initiated against 54 suspects; 14 are abroad and 39 are in custody. One suspect is already serving a prison sentence. Justice Minister Akın Gürlek shared details of the operation with the public.