Turkey appoints trustees to 23 firms in Süleymancılar probe

September 20, 2026 at 11:05 AM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Turkish prosecutors ordered the detention of 29 suspects and appointed trustees to 23 companies in the fourth wave of an investigation into the Alihan Kuriş criminal organization, known as the Süleymancılar. The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office said the suspects organized the group's domestic and international money movements, facilitated unregistered financial transfers, and laundered proceeds of crime. Evidence also points to organizational and financial activities aimed at influencing election processes in Turkey.

Key Facts

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office ordered the detention of 29 suspects on 20 September 2026.
Trustees were appointed to 23 companies assessed as linked to the Alihan Kuriş criminal organization.
Investigators found evidence that cash was hidden in aid shipments abroad and moved through logistics companies.
The case file includes findings on organizational and financial activities aimed at influencing election processes in Turkey.

Detention and Trustee Orders

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office issued detention orders for 29 suspects on 20 September 2026. Searches were carried out at the suspects' residences and workplaces. Trustees were appointed to 23 companies assessed as linked to the Alihan Kuriş criminal organization. The investigation is being coordinated by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.

Financial Crime Allegations

The prosecutor's office stated that individuals and companies linked to the Alihan Kuriş organization organized the group's domestic and international money and asset movements. They facilitated unregistered financial transfers and laundered proceeds assessed as derived from crime. Evidence shows cash was hidden in aid shipments sent abroad and moved through logistics companies. Some of the group's overseas financial aid was transferred via online payment systems, while a significant portion was moved informally through logistics firms and trusted couriers. Consultancy services were provided by certain companies and individuals to make these irregular transactions appear lawful.

Election Influence Findings

Digital materials, witness statements, financial records, and other evidence indicate the suspects engaged in organizational and financial activities aimed at influencing election processes in Turkey. The prosecutor's office said the examination of this aspect is continuing in multiple directions.