ISTANBUL, Dec. 15 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police have detained 26 suspects and seized more than 1.1 tons of drugs along with nearly 6.9 million narcotic pills in a month-long anti-narcotics operation across Istanbul, authorities said Monday.

The raids were carried out in 11 districts of the city. Following legal procedures, 22 suspects were remanded in custody, while the other four were released under judicial supervision, the Istanbul Police Department said.

Istanbul Provincial Police Chief Selami Yildiz described the fight against drugs as a humanitarian struggle to protect society, particularly the youth, and thanked the public for their cooperation.

Türkiye, used by illegal drug dealers as a transit hub to European markets, has stepped up its efforts to combat drug use and trafficking. Heightened border inspections and nationwide crackdowns have resulted in significant seizures and the arrest of several suspects.

However, drug consumption is on the rise in Türkiye despite harsh legislation and government efforts, especially among young urbanites, according to media reports. Enditem