New Step in Counter-Terrorism: 'Terror Crime Investigation Offices' to be Established in 81 Provinces

The Ministry of Justice has taken a significant step to combat terrorism more effectively. Upon the instruction of the Minister of Justice, Akın Gürlek, separate 'Terror Crime Investigation Offices' will be established within the 175 heavy penal court prosecutor's offices in 81 provinces. This new regulation will enable investigations into terrorism-related crimes to be conducted more swiftly, effectively, and in a coordinated manner. The special offices to be established within the provincial public prosecutor's offices will focus solely on terrorism-related crimes, allowing for a more concentrated effort. All proceedings and actions related to terrorism will be carried out primarily by these special offices within the provincial public prosecutor's offices. In cases where urgency is a concern, documents related to actions taken by district public prosecutor's offices will be sent to the relevant provincial public prosecutor's office after necessary procedures have been completed. Furthermore, evaluation meetings will be held every first week of the month, under the coordination of the General Directorate of Criminal Affairs, Department of Terrorism Crimes, with the participation of the General Directorate of Security and the Gendarmerie General Command, Department of Counter-Terrorism. During these meetings, assessments of counter-terrorism efforts will be shared with the provincial public prosecutor's offices. Additionally, monthly statistics on terrorism investigations across the country will be prepared and sent to relevant units prior to the coordination meetings.