20.12.2025 17:45
The drug investigation targeting celebrities has deepened. A warrant has been issued for the arrest of world-renowned photographer Mert Alaş and two other individuals. Known for his bold style and iconic portraits in fashion photography, Mert Alaş has done shoots for some of the biggest magazines and brands in the world. He became known to the public as the "Turk who stripped Madonna" due to his highly publicized shoots with her.
The drug investigation targeting celebrities conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office is expanding.
ARREST WARRANT FOR 3 NAMES
Recently, an arrest warrant was issued for world-renowned photographer Mert Alaş, Fatih Garipoğlu, the brother of Kasım Garipoğlu, who has an arrest warrant against him, and Gökmen Kadir Şeynova, Kasım Garipoğlu's partner, for the crime of 'manufacturing and trafficking of narcotic or stimulant substances.'
WHO IS MERT ALAŞ?
Especially known in the fashion and art world, Mert Alaş stands out as one of the most recognized Turkish photographers internationally. Alaş built a global career with projects he realized with Hollywood stars and worldwide fashion brands.
Born in 1971, Mert Alaş began his photography career in England. Working from London, Alaş quickly became one of the sought-after names in the fashion world thanks to the partnership he established with British photographer Marcus Piggott. The signature "Mert & Marcus" drew attention in prestigious fashion magazines, especially from the 2000s onwards.
WORKED WITH THE WORLD'S LARGEST MAGAZINES AND BRANDS
Throughout his career, Alaş has done shoots for some of the world's most prestigious magazines, including Vogue, Vanity Fair, Interview, and W Magazine. He has also worked on campaigns for global fashion brands such as Gucci, Versace, Dior, Calvin Klein, and Louis Vuitton.
"THE TURK WHO STOLE MADONNA"
Among the names posing for the photographer are world-famous stars such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Kate Moss, Gisele Bündchen, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian. The bold and artistic photo shoots he did with Madonna led to Alaş being widely known as "the Turk who stole Madonna."
Mert Alaş is known for his bold compositions, strong use of light, and iconic portraits in fashion photography. His works are considered examples that shape the aesthetic understanding of modern fashion photography.