Gold Trade Operation Resulting in 100 Billion Lira of Public Loss

Major Investigation into Gold Trade in Istanbul

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office conducted a significant operation against a criminal organization that allegedly caused a 100 billion lira public loss. According to allegations, the organization established new companies through second and third parties to carry out illegal transactions in the gold and precious metals trade outside of quotas and regulations.

Methods of the Criminal Organization

The statement indicated that the companies managed by the suspects imported tons of gold and silver under the "Inward Processing Regime" between January 9, 2023, and December 10, 2024, but a significant portion was illegally exported abroad.

Unjust Gains and Public Damages

The organization provided unjust gains through fake documents and misleading transactions. For instance, it was noted that products declared as gold plates were replaced with rice plates or imitation gold upon delivery. It has been revealed that these methods led to approximately 100 billion lira in public damages.

Detention and Legal Process

In this context, simultaneous detention, search, capture, and seizure actions have been initiated against a total of 23 suspects on various charges related to the criminal organization. Currently, 21 suspects have been detained, while capture operations for 2 suspects are still ongoing.