Haluk Levent and Fatih Eke dispute $7 million crypto deal in Ahbap probe

Businessman Fatih Eke gave police statements in the Ahbap Derneği investigation, saying he sold his "Nigella Chain" cryptocurrency ecosystem to singer‑philanthropist Haluk Levent for about $7 million. Eke claims he received roughly $3 million in checks and part of the balance in cash, but that large portions of the payment remain unpaid. He alleges that $1.5 million of the sale price was deducted for a planned "Nigella Surf Center" school project in Hatay, which never materialised, leaving him unable to recover the funds.

The Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s Office (case 2025/284884) seized Eke’s phone, uncovering WhatsApp messages from a number identified as “Haluk Levent 3” and check images showing Haluk Levent as the drawee. Financial Intelligence Unit (MASAK) reports 32 transfers totalling about 30 million TL passing through accounts of Yeliz Kaya, described as Levent’s assistant and accountant. Eke denies any criminal conduct, invoking the lack of “effective repentance” provisions, and asserts he is a victim of unpaid obligations. Haluk Levent has faced a related criminal charge linked to the disputed payments.