18 suspects detained over alleged links to ISIL in Istanbul

Some 18 people were detained in simultaneous raids around Istanbul over alleged links to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) on June 11, Doğan News Agency has reported.

Anti-terrorism police raided 19 different addresses in 11 districts in Istanbul early on June 11 as part of an investigation into the jihadist group. 

The 18 suspects, who were alleged to have taken part in activities in ISIL in Syria and participated in clashes on behalf of the group, were detained by police and taken to a police station for testimony.

Police also seized weapons, ammunition, documents and digital materials during the raids.

One pump-rifle, 29 ball cartridges, 35 bullets and one pair of handcuffs were also seized by the police.

Meanwhile, five ISIL suspects were caught while they were attempting to illegally enter Turkey from Syria through the southeastern province of Kilis on June 11, Doğan News agency has reported.

Gendarmerie forces who were patrolling along the Syrian border noticed five suspects while they were trying to infiltrate Turkey. Following a search, the gendarmerie determined that the suspects were alleged ISIL militants. 

The five were detained before being brought to the Provincial Gendarmerie Command in Kilis.