Details of the illegal reproductive cell trade operation in 14 provinces

In the simultaneous illegal reproductive cell sales operation organized across 14 provinces in Turkey, it was determined that women were directed abroad to sell cells in exchange for financial gain. Experts discussed the legal and health aspects of the issue.

In the illegal reproductive cell sales operation that was on Turkey's agenda and carried out simultaneously in 14 provinces, it was detected that women were directed abroad to sell reproductive cells in exchange for financial gain. Lawyer Nigar Atabay Yıldız, registered with the Diyarbakır Bar Association, and Obstetrician and Gynecologist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Selami Erdem shared the legal and medical consequences of the operation.

Lawyer Nigar Atabay Yıldız stated that these actions are evaluated within the scope of organ and tissue trade pursuant to Article 91 of the Turkish Penal Code, noting that prison sentences ranging from 5 to 9 years are foreseen for those involved in the crime. Yıldız also stated that the Ministry of Health keeps IVF and assisted reproductive treatment centers under strict supervision, and that strict rules such as the requirement of marriage are applied in legal processes.

Obstetrician and Gynecologist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Selami Erdem emphasized that procedures carried out under illegal and underground conditions involve the use of high-dose medications. Erdem stated that the egg collection process is performed under anesthesia and carries vital risks including infection, bleeding, organ damage, blood clotting, and even death.