Enhanced border security measures in Hakkari's Derecik district

In Hakkari's Derecik district at the Iraq border, a 2,152-meter-long wall and approximately 10 kilometers of trenches have been constructed to prevent illegal crossings, smuggling activities, and terrorism. The region, neighboring Iran and Iraq, has ramped up security measures to curb all forms of illegal activities. Last year, under the coordination of the Interior Ministry's Directorate General of Migration Management and the Provincial Special Administration, a security wall was erected in Duya, a hamlet in the village of Anadağ. In this high-security zone, complete with border outposts and watchtowers fitted with panoramic and night vision cameras, soldiers maintain border control using the full range of available technology. Continuous monitoring and interventions in illegal activities are ensured by security forces working around the clock. Advanced systems, like acoustic sensors, lighting systems, night-vision binoculars, and drones, provide immediate responses to illegal activities detected along the border. The 1st Border Battalion Commander noted that the Hacıbey Stream, forming part of the Iraq-Türkiye border, merges with the Barazgir Stream from Iraq before reaching the Zap River. The project, initiated in 2024, concluded with the establishment of reconnaissance and surveillance systems. The Commander emphasized the deterrent effect of the 2,152-meter modular concrete wall, stating that panoramic and thermal PTZ cameras are remotely controlled from a central monitoring center within the living area. The Commander also highlighted the natural and artificial barriers as the first line of defense within the security system. The completed trenches, measuring 7 meters in both width and depth, significantly enhance deterrence and the response capabilities to border incidents. The area, governed by the Military Forbidden and Security Zones Act, necessitates residents to seek permissions for water resource usage through local authorities, with entry points decided by the relevant command. In periods of drought, access to water for local villagers engaged in livestock farming is facilitated through coordinated requests and permissions. Gates have been built in the trench region for controlled access, aiding local communities during dry spells. With current drought conditions improving and no recent requests from the authorities, the gates remain locked and under control, while reconnaissance and monitoring activities persist relentlessly.