Turkish Army uses ‘channels’ against smuggling and illegal crossings on border with Syria

ANKARA – Anatolian news agency

The army aims to prevent smuggling and gain time during operations against illegal crossings with the channels. AA Photo

Turkish Armed Forces have built channels in critical areas on the border with Syria in an effort to fight against illegal border crossings and smuggling.

The army aims to prevent smuggling and gain time during operations against illegal crossings with the channels, which are 2 meters wide and 3 meters deep.

The channel excavations were conducted in areas describes as “critical” on the border line in the southeastern province of Şanlıurfa.

Turkey’s physical security for borders was reinforced with channels and additional 2.5-meter-high wire fences, Border Troop General Lt. Col. Sertaç Binbaşıoğlu said.

Armored vehicles called “Cobras” are also patrolling the Turkish-Syrian border as a part of security plans. The Cobra teams reportedly consist of five soldiers and patrol the region both day and night.