Türkiye: 21 detained over misuse of charity donations in major fraud probe

Authorities in Türkiye have uncovered a large-scale financial misconduct case involving a charitable foundation, with 21 people detained in coordinated raids across several provinces.

Thus, investigators found that out of approximately 372.6 million Turkish lira (about $8.3 million) received in donations, around 72 million lira (roughly $1.6 million) was misused, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

The investigation, conducted under the supervision of the public prosecutor’s office, concluded that a significant portion of the funds was not directed towards the organisation’s stated charitable activities.

Instead, investigators allege the money was spent on personal expenses by suspects or channelled through fictitious payments described as “salaries” and “bonuses”.

Authorities also identified a notable discrepancy between the declared income of senior figures within the organisation and their actual wealth, which investigators say may indicate possible money laundering.

In synchronised operations in Istanbul, Sivas and Muğla, police detained 21 suspects. All have been taken into custody for further questioning and legal proceedings.

By Aghakazim Guliyev