Turkish authorities seized 51 kilos and 750 grams of cocaine from a Liberian-registered bulk carrier which was anchored off the coast of Adana Yumurtalik in Iskenderun Bay.

Turkish Minister of Internal Affairs, Ali Yerlikaya, highlighted in the social media the search and seizure efforts underway as part of the increased efforts he is leading to crackdown on narcotics.

In a statement on social media, Interior minister Ali Yerlikaya said the drugs found in two durable plastic bags tied to the anchor chain of the vessel Berge Torre.

According to the minister, the drugs were wrapped in 45 packages inside two durable plastic bags.

“I want our dear nation to know that we will not tolerate poison dealers. Our ports are being closely monitored,” Yerlikaya said on X.

Statements are being taken from 26 persons, including the captain, chief officers and other seafarers, the minister added.

“I congratulate our police, coast guard and Mersin customs enforcement teams who carried out the operation. I kiss your eyes. May God not let stones touch your feet,” the minister said.

Footage of the operation in X (former twitter) showed divers searching the propeller and anchor chain.