Story perspectives

British Women Arrested in Istanbul for Cannabis Smuggling

5/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Holly Cooper and Taylor Johnson, 20, were arrested at Istanbul airport on 26 April for carrying two suitcases of cannabis.
British nationals are recruited by drug-smuggling networks because their passports ease travel.
Analysts say young British women are lured with free flights and cash, prompting arrests in Turkey, Germany and Indonesia.
UK Foreign Office is in contact with Turkish authorities and is offering assistance to the detained couple and their families.

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Story summary

Holly Cooper and Taylor Johnson, 20, were arrested at Istanbul airport on 26 April for carrying two suitcases of cannabis.
British nationals are recruited by drug-smuggling networks because their passports ease travel.
Analysts say young British women are lured with free flights and cash, prompting arrests in Turkey, Germany and Indonesia.
UK Foreign Office is in contact with Turkish authorities and is offering assistance to the detained couple and their families.