A major, wide-ranging public security operation by Istanbul police on Tuesday night saw the arrest of at least 149 people suspected of variety of crimes, a police statement said.

The "big-broom" operation in Turkey's largest city netted a variety of suspected offenders but had no stated larger aim.

Istanbul police, backed by helicopters, also performed identity checks on nearly 27,000 people across numerous locations in 39 districts of the city.

According to the police, 7,154 cars and 631 workplaces were inspected. Police fined 96 drivers and 54 business owners for various infractions.

Security forces also seized eight unlicensed guns, ammunition, and various types of illegal drugs.

Over 5,000 police officers, including special units, took part in the operation between 8 pm. local time to midnight.

Istanbul police periodically carry out simultaneous security checks across the city with the participation of hundreds of officers.