Massive operation in Istanbul: Crypto profiteer wanted with a red notice was caught

Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek, in his statement on his social media account, stated that efforts are being continued with determination in the coordination of security and intelligence units to capture internationally wanted persons and prevent them from escaping from justice.

According to Minister Gürlek's post, it was determined that US citizen Richard James Schueler, for whom a red notice was issued by INTERPOL for allegedly committing a $1 billion crypto asset fraud in the USA and Finland, was in Istanbul.

The operation was carried out in Beşiktaş on October 14, 2026, after the location of the suspect was determined as a result of the work carried out by the Intelligence and Financial Crimes Branch Directorates of the Istanbul Police Department, under the coordination of the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, with the support of the National Intelligence Organization.

Schueler and his wife were detained during the operation. Within the scope of ongoing studies, 3 more people who were determined to be the suspect's bodyguards were caught.

SEARCH WAS MADE AT 15 ADDRESSES

During the judicial searches carried out at a total of 15 addresses in Beşiktaş, Üsküdar and Sarıyer districts, 7 million 150 thousand US dollars and 160 thousand liras were seized. During the searches, 6 cold wallets, 300 bags of different brands, 100 pairs of shoes, 136 glasses, 28 wristwatches, 97 pieces of jewelry and various valuable items were found.

Within the scope of digital materials, 29 mobile phones, 12 laptops, 11 computer cases, 19 SSDs and external disks, 46 USB sticks and 19 video cards were seized. During the searches, 4 long-barreled rifles, 3 unlicensed pistols and 1,400 cartridges were seized.

"TURKEY WILL NOT BE A SANCTUARY OF CRIMINALS"

Minister Gürlek stated that judicial proceedings against the suspects and investigations into the seized materials continue. He thanked the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, which conducted the investigation, the relevant units of the Istanbul Police Department, which carried out the operation, the National Intelligence Organization, and the public officials who contributed to the work.

Emphasizing that they will not allow Türkiye to be seen as a safe haven for people who want to escape from justice, Gürlek said, "We will continue to protect the security of our country with determination and further strengthen our international cooperation in the fight against transnational crimes."