19.06.2026 13:42
An operation was conducted targeting international drug networks whose phones were found to contain the same encrypted communication application in an Istanbul-based investigation. Detention orders were issued for 50 suspects, while numerous bank accounts, crypto assets, real estate, vehicles, and company shares were seized. Red notice procedures have been initiated for suspects located abroad.
As part of the investigation conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office's Financial Crimes and Money Laundering Investigation Bureau, international criminal organizations using specially designed encrypted communication programs have been scrutinized.
The investigation determined that organization members used a communication system providing end-to-end encrypted messaging, operating only on special devices. It was found that hardware such as microphones, cameras, and GPS were disabled on these devices.
IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THEY TRANSPORTED DRUGS BETWEEN COUNTRIES
As a result of examining the encrypted communications, it was determined that criminal organizations procured narcotics from different countries and shipped them sometimes to Turkey and sometimes to other countries.
The investigation also established that the organizations attempted to launder the high revenues obtained from drug trafficking through various methods.
50 SUSPECTS IDENTIFIED
A total of 50 suspects were identified within the scope of the case. It was reported that 10 of the suspects were in prison for other crimes, 19 were abroad or fugitives, and 21 individuals were located in Turkey.
Simultaneous operations were conducted by the Istanbul Provincial Police Department's Narcotics Crime Prevention Branch teams to apprehend the suspects.
ASSETS SEIZED
Assets considered to have been obtained through crime were also examined as part of the investigation. In this context, bank accounts and crypto assets belonging to 50 individuals, along with 78 properties, 77 motor vehicles, and shares in 15 companies, were seized.
Additionally, it was reported that an international search effort has been initiated for suspects determined to be abroad, and steps have been taken to issue a red notice.