Authorities in northern Turkey uncovered a 100-foot (30 meters) tunnel beneath a private home, believed to have been illegally dug for treasure hunting, after residents complained of a foul smell.
Residents alert officials after days of bad odor
The discovery was made in the Hisarardı neighborhood of Kastamonu, capital of the eponymous province on the Black Sea coast, along İbn-i Neccar Street. Locals had reported a strong, unpleasant odor that had persisted for several days. Concerned residents notified the neighborhood head, who then contacted police.
Police discover tunnel beneath residence
Officers arrived at the property and attempted to reach the homeowner. Police discovered a tunnel measuring approximately 100 feet long (30 meters) and 6 and a half feet deep (two meters) inside the house. Authorities suspect the passage was secretly excavated as part of an illegal treasure-hunting effort.
Unauthorized digging is a crime in Turkey, especially when conducted without proper permits or within residential zones. The tunnel appeared to have been constructed without any formal authorization.
Kastamonu is a city with deep historical roots, inhabited for thousands of years by various civilizations. With such a rich and layered past, it’s possible the man believed he might uncover hidden relics or ancient treasures buried beneath the property.
Investigators unable to trace source of smell
Following the tunnel’s discovery, fire crews and crime scene investigators were called to the property to assess the area.
According to Milliyet, experts conducted thorough inspections but were unable to identify the exact source of the foul stench that had prompted the investigation. The stench had been present in the area for about four days before authorities were notified.
No hazardous materials or human remains were found during the search. Authorities noted that while the tunnel was structurally intact, its construction raised serious safety concerns.
Homeowner taken into custody
Police detained the homeowner for questioning regarding the unauthorized excavation. Officials said the investigation is ongoing and did not rule out the possibility of additional suspects or charges.
Residents express alarm over safety
Local resident Necdet Gül spoke about the experience. “While sitting in the open area of the tea house in the garden, a bad smell has surrounded us for three to four days,” he said. ”We got suspicious from this smell.”
Community members raised concerns about both the health risks posed by the smell and the safety hazards of hidden digging so close to neighboring homes.
Structural checks underway
City officials have ordered building inspectors to assess the home for possible structural damage caused by the underground tunnel in Turkey. Authorities warned that such unregulated digging could lead to ground collapse or pose other dangers to the community.
Officials reminded the public that all excavation activities, especially in populated areas, must be approved and monitored by heritage and safety authorities.