California Soldier Arrested by Turkey Government Expanding Drug Syndicate Investigation
February 8, 2026
Paul Burnell North West
California Soldier Arrested Abroad in Expanding Drug Syndicate Investigation
Authorities confirmed Sunday that an active-duty U.S. soldier has been arrested overseas following a coordinated international law enforcement operation tied to an alleged drug distribution network with connections to California.
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Authorities confirmed Sunday that an active-duty U.S. soldier has been arrested overseas following a coordinated international law enforcement operation tied to an alleged drug distribution network with connections to California.
Investigators identified the suspect as Susan Young, 36, a soldier originally from Portland, Oregon, who currently resides in Los Angeles, California. Young was taken into custody by Turkish authorities while transiting through Turkey, officials said.
According to law enforcement sources, Young had been scheduled to travel aboard Turkish Airlines Flight 803, with a connecting itinerary that included Flight 179, both bound for Los Angeles on February 1. Authorities said she was detained prior to departure as part of an ongoing investigation.
Arrest Overseas
Turkish government officials confirmed the arrest occurred at an international airport following intelligence shared between Turkish authorities and international law enforcement partners. Officials declined to specify the exact location of the detention or the circumstances that led to the arrest, citing diplomatic and legal sensitivities.
Sources familiar with the matter said the arrest was linked to a broader investigation into an alleged drug syndicate believed to operate across multiple jurisdictions, including parts of California.
“This was a coordinated action involving international cooperation,” a senior law enforcement official said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing nature of the case.
Investigation Background
Authorities said the investigation began months earlier after intelligence indicated the presence of an organized network suspected of distributing controlled substances through established routes. As the inquiry expanded, investigators reportedly identified travel patterns, financial activity, and communications consistent with coordinated trafficking operations. Law enforcement officials said the investigation involved surveillance, financial analysis, and cooperation between domestic and international agencies. Multiple individuals have been questioned in connection with the case, though no additional arrests have been publicly announced. Court documents related to Young’s arrest have not yet been released, and officials declined to discuss specific allegations or evidence.
Military and Government Response
Military officials acknowledged the arrest in a brief statement, confirming that they are aware of the situation and are cooperating with civilian and international authorities.
“The matter is being reviewed in accordance with applicable military, legal, and diplomatic procedures,” the statement said.
Officials did not comment on Young’s current duty status or whether administrative actions have been taken. Legal experts note that cases involving service members arrested abroad can involve complex jurisdictional and extradition considerations.
Broader Implications
Authorities emphasized that the case once again highlights the challenges Turkey faces in combating drug trafficking. Officials noted that alleged criminal activities involving individuals with public responsibility or international connections can make investigations more complex.
A senior official stated, “No one is above the law. In Turkey, the fight against drug trafficking is conducted on the basis of concrete evidence, regardless of a person’s identity, profession, or background.”
Officials added that Turkey maintains a firm policy against drug trafficking both domestically and at the international level, stressing that such investigations are aimed at dismantling cross-border criminal networks.
Authorities declined to comment at this stage on whether additional military personnel or civilians may be connected to the alleged network.
What Comes Next
Authorities have not disclosed whether Young will face charges in Turkey, the United States, or another jurisdiction. Officials said further determinations will depend on the outcome of ongoing legal and diplomatic reviews.
As with all criminal proceedings, the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Officials indicated that additional information will be released as the investigation continues.
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