[REVISION HISTORY]

Investigation into Alihan Kuriş expands to murder probe

Updated 64 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-20 11:34 UTC → 2026-09-20 12:55 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The investigation into the Alihan Kuriş criminal organization, linked to the leadership of the Süleymancılar religious group, continues to expand. The probe encompasses allegations of money laundering, fraud against the state, tax evasion, and the establishment of a criminal organization. Authorities have seized 50 companies and four associations, with total arrests reaching 81. In addition to financial crimes, the Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office is conducting a murder investigation regarding the 2016 death of former Minister Arif Ahmet Denizolgun. A forensic report by Prof. Dr. Nevzat Alkan classified the death as ‘suspicious,’ contradicting an original report of natural causes. Following the exhumation of Denizolgun’s grave in August 2026, investigators identified heavy metals—including barium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and nickel—in his tissues and decomposition fluids. Witness testimonies have introduced allegations regarding political and religious motivations, including claims that Kuriş and his mother, Ayşe Gülderen, sought to lead the religious community for financial gain. A fourth wave of operations led by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has resulted in the appointment of trustees to 23 companies suspected of facilitating the group's financial movements. Investigators allege the organization used logistics companies, couriers, and online payment systems to move cash, sometimes concealing funds within humanitarian aid shipments sent abroad. Furthermore, new witness testimonies suggest the group engaged in political manipulation during election cycles, alleging that members were pressured to vote for the CHP and faced exclusion from mosques, student dormitories, and social facilities if they did not comply.

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