Turkish investigation into religious sects

The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) in Turkey released a report examining the historical background and potential risks of various religious sects following the 2016 coup attempt. The report warned of non-transparent structures and the need to prevent organizations similar to FETÖ from emerging. It specifically highlighted the Süleymancılar group, noting their use of educational dormitories and private institutions, and mentioned Selefi-leaning groups like the Furkan Foundation.

Following this report, Turkish authorities expanded investigations into the Süleymanlılar religious community. Justice Minister Akın Gürlek stated that the inquiry, referred to as the ‘Alihan Kuriş criminal organization’ investigation, is focused on financial crimes. This has led to requests for judicial assistance from Germany to examine international fund transfers involving organizations such as the Cologne-based Association of Islamic Cultural Centers (VIKZ).

Concurrently, prosecutors have targeted the media outlet TR724 under disinformation laws, accusing it of publishing ‘false, manipulative and misleading’ content regarding the 2016 death of Süleymanlılar leader Arif Ahmet Denizolgun. While the media outlet claims these actions are attempts to silence reporting on a government crackdown, the VIKZ association in Germany has denied allegations of financial impropriety, calling them a smear campaign.