Alihan Kuriş investigation reveals 66 billion lira in suspicious transactions

An investigation by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office into the Alihan Kuriş organized crime group has revealed massive financial irregularities. A 168-page report by the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) identified over 66 billion lira in banking transaction volume associated with Güleryüz Kuyumculuk Turizm ve Otomotiv AŞ between 2017 and 2026.

The report highlights significant cash movements, including 26.2 billion lira in cash deposits. Additionally, Istanbul Hisar Turizm ve Ticaret AŞ recorded over 8 billion lira in outflows to foreign countries, specifically targeting Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Law enforcement operations led to the seizure of 3 million dollars in checks and over 27 million lira in gold and jewelry from a safe at Kuriş's residence. Kuriş was reportedly apprehended in a hidden compartment during a raid. Authorities also recovered shredded documents from trash bags in Ümraniye that were believed to be attempts to destroy evidence.

Investigations into the group's assets also uncovered 191 real estate properties held by Kuriş and his family across two provinces, including significant holdings in Istanbul and Sakarya. The investigation covers charges including establishing a criminal organization, money laundering, and fraud.