A joint operation between the Turkish Narcotics Crime Combating Department, Mersin Special Operations Division, Coast Guard and Navy Command officials have led to one of the largest drug hauls recorded in Turkey. With 1 tonne and 71 kilograms of heroin seized on the offshore supply ship dubbed the Commander Tide, 40 separate sacks each containing 25 packages were found concealed in secret compartments onboard the ship worth an estimated US 57 million.

The nine crew members on board were detained and taken to a naval base in Marmaris, Turkey for further questioning while the investigation continues.