A Turkish shipowner arrested in Mytilene last Saturday on an outstanding arrest warrant dating back to 2022 has been ordered held in pretrial detention by the North Aegean Court of Appeal prosecutor.

The shipowner, who operates ferry services on the Mytilene–Ayvalık route, faces serious charges related to the trafficking of narcotics, including an alleged shipment of more than two tons of cocaine. Authorities are investigating a criminal organization allegedly involved in drug trafficking that included Albanian, Greek, and Turkish nationals.

The suspect was located on Saturday, August 1, by officers of the Mytilene Port Authority during a routine inspection of personnel aboard a ferry that had recently returned to the route after a prolonged absence.

During the crew identification check, officers discovered that an arrest warrant was outstanding against the shipowner, leading to his arrest.

He is expected to be transferred to Korydallos Prison to remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.