Illegal Citizenship Operation in Istanbul: 33 Arrests

74 suspects were detained in the investigation carried out against foreign nationals who were determined to have acquired Turkish citizenship through irregular transactions in Istanbul. While 33 of the suspects were arrested, many companies and assets were seized within the scope of the investigation.

Istanbul Police Department Anti-Immigrant Smuggling and Border Gates Branch Directorate teams; It started an investigation against the crimes of "establishing an organization for the purpose of committing a crime", "immigrant smuggling", "forgery of official documents", "forgery of private documents" and "false declaration in the preparation of official documents".

In the investigations carried out in line with the reports of the Expert and Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK), it was determined that although the required amount of foreign currency to acquire Turkish citizenship did not enter the country, money traffic was presented as if it had taken place and fraudulent real estate sales were made.

Within the scope of the investigation, it was also determined that false, high-priced expert reports were prepared, foreign nationals received financial benefits in return for these transactions, and the public was harmed.

74 people were detained in simultaneous operations organized on September 21 to catch the suspects.

Within the scope of the operation, 32 companies were seized and the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF) was appointed as trustee.

Also within the scope of the investigation:

2 thousand 11 real estate

To 1 hotel in Istanbul

86 motor vehicles

2 beds

42 bank accounts were seized.

33 of the 74 suspects who were referred to the courthouse after their procedures at the police station were arrested and sent to prison.

While 21 of the suspects were released on condition of judicial control, house arrest was ordered for 20 people.