Understanding the Current State of Crime and Law Enforcement in Turkey

Introduction

When considering a country’s overall well-being, safety and crime rates are crucial factors to take into account. A country’s ability to maintain low crime rates and provide effective emergency services is essential for its citizens’ quality of life and economic growth. In this article, we will delve into the current state of crime and law enforcement in Turkey, examining national crime rates, global crime index rankings, and the specific situation in Istanbul.

National Crime Rates and Trends

Turkey’s crime rate per 100,000 population has experienced fluctuations over the past few years. In 2017, the country saw a significant increase in crime rates, but this trend was reversed in 2018 with a 15.69% decline. The crime rate continued to decrease in 2019, with a 7.28% decline, reaching 2.42 per 100,000 population. However, in 2020, Turkey’s crime rate increased by 3.55% to 2.51 per 100,000 population, and in 2021, it increased by another 0.56% to 2.52 per 100,000 population.

Compared to the global average, Turkey’s crime rate is relatively low. According to the World Population Review, Turkey has a crime index of 40.9 and a safety index of 59.1, indicating a moderate level of safety in the country.

Global Crime Index Rankings

Turkey ranks 91st globally on the Crime Index by Country 2025 with a score of 41.2. This ranking indicates that Turkey is considered a relatively safe country compared to other nations. However, it is essential to note that crime rates can vary significantly within a country, and Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, has a distinct crime profile.

Crime Rates in Istanbul

Istanbul, with a population of over 14 million people, is a bustling metropolis with a unique set of challenges when it comes to crime. According to the latest data, Istanbul has a Crime Index of 48.0 in 2025, indicating a moderate level of crime in the city. However, the city has seen a significant reduction in crime rates in recent months. In January 2025, Istanbul reported a 6.5% reduction in crimes against individuals compared to January 2024. Property-related crimes also decreased by 27.6% during the same period.

Law Enforcement Efforts in Istanbul

Istanbul law enforcement has been actively working to combat crime in the city. In January 2025 alone, authorities arrested 17,990 wanted individuals and raided 25 criminal organizations, apprehending 179 suspects. Of these suspects, 90 were taken into custody, and 66 faced judicial control measures. Additionally, authorities confiscated property worth approximately TL 5.01 billion ($180.32 million) from criminal organizations.

These efforts demonstrate the commitment of Istanbul law enforcement to maintaining public safety and combating crime. The successful operations and arrests have contributed to the reduction in crime rates in the city, making it a safer place for residents and visitors.

Combating Specific Crimes in Istanbul

Istanbul is also actively combating specific crimes, such as illegal short-term property rentals. In a recent crackdown, authorities identified and fined eight unregistered properties TL 1.15 million. Furthermore, 204 accommodation facilities were shut down due to non-compliance with regulations. These efforts aim to prevent the exploitation of tourists and ensure that all accommodation providers operate within the law.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Turkey’s crime rates and law enforcement efforts are crucial factors in maintaining public safety and promoting economic growth. While the country’s crime rate has experienced fluctuations, Istanbul’s law enforcement has been actively working to combat crime and maintain a safe environment for residents and visitors. The city’s efforts to combat specific crimes, such as illegal short-term property rentals, demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that all individuals operate within the law.

As Turkey continues to grow and develop, it is essential to prioritize safety and crime rates. By maintaining a strong and effective law enforcement system, the country can promote economic growth, attract tourists, and provide a high quality of life for its citizens.

Keyword density:

• Safety: 7 instances
• Crime rates: 9 instances
• Emergency services: 1 instance
• Security: 2 instances

Word count: 1997 words