Istanbul drug bust detains 23 celebrities, court orders 8‑9 imprisonments

Istanbul police carried out a large‑scale drug operation coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. Twenty‑three people were taken into custody, among them well‑known figures such as actors Beren Saat, singers Kenan Doğulu and Ayşe Hatun Önal, internet personality Kerimcan Durmaz, model Tessy Ramos Correira and others.

A court hearing resulted in imprisonment orders for eight to nine of the suspects, while the remaining individuals were released subject to judicial‑control measures such as travel bans, house arrest or regular reporting. Two suspects received house‑arrest orders. The investigation continues, with further evidence and statements still being examined.

The probe is being led by prosecutor Ebubekir Efe, who was recently reassigned to the Silivri Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office under the 2026 judicial appointment decree. Officials indicated that the case will remain under active scrutiny in the coming weeks.