Turkish security forces have detained 30 suspects, including alleged crime kingpin Alihan Kuris, during a major operation against an alleged criminal organisation.
The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office said authorities launched simultaneous raids across 17 provinces. The investigation focuses on allegations including organised crime, fraud, money laundering and tax violations.
Authorities also examined the financial activities of companies allegedly connected to the organisation. The findings reportedly revealed unusual corporate structures and significant financial movements.
Financial Investigation Reveals Suspicious Company Activity
Türkiye’s Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) prepared a report examining the suspects and their companies.
According to the report, financial transaction volumes at several companies increased sharply after 2020. Some businesses also underwent divisions and transfers during this period.
Investigators found that newly established companies sometimes received unusually large capital amounts. These businesses were also registered in different provinces and operated in sectors unrelated to their original companies.
Some companies reportedly had little activity beyond holding capital. Investigators alleged that they used these funds to finance subsidiaries.
Authorities believe this structure may have made company records harder to access. It could also have complicated efforts to trace financial transactions.
Investigators Examine Cash and Overseas Transfers
The MASAK report also identified significant cash movements involving several companies. Some businesses reportedly received transfers through different payment institutions.
Shareholders allegedly made large cash injections into companies. Investigators said the sources of some funds required further explanation.
The report also highlighted transfers involving overseas companies. Some foreign currency transactions reportedly did not match the companies’ records.
Additionally, certain businesses received substantial tax refunds. Investigators assessed that the financial transactions may have occurred through an organised system.
The companies’ purchase and sales records also showed high-value transactions with other legal entities. Authorities considered some transactions potentially relevant to suspected fictitious invoicing.
30 Suspects Detained Across 17 Provinces
Authorities conducted simultaneous operations across 17 provinces, mainly in Istanbul, Ankara and Antalya.
The prosecutor’s office had issued detention orders for 49 suspects. Nine suspects were reportedly abroad, while authorities continue efforts to locate another 10.
Security forces also received search and seizure warrants for 43 addresses linked to suspects. Another 80 addresses connected to 33 companies were targeted.
Of the 49 suspects, authorities detained 30 people, including Alihan Kuris.
The investigation covers allegations of establishing and leading a criminal organisation, membership in a criminal group, laundering criminal proceeds and fraud against public institutions.
Authorities are continuing efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects and examine the financial evidence collected during the operations.
