ISTANBUL, December 20, 2023 — A widening drug investigation has ensnared a constellation of Turkish celebrities, with authorities detaining and arresting prominent figures in the entertainment world. The probe, initiated October 8 by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, centers on allegations of drug purchasing, possession, and use.
Celebrity Drug Investigation Sweeps Istanbul
A wave of detentions and asset seizures has rocked the Turkish entertainment industry as authorities investigate alleged drug use among well-known personalities.
- The investigation began October 8, targeting musicians, managers, and business people.
- Actress İrem Sak, social media personality Danla Bilic, Mümine Senna Yıldız, and singer Aleyna Tilki were among those initially detained December 18.
- Arrest warrants have been issued for Şevval Şahin, Mert Vidinli, and Kasım Garipoğlu, with their assets seized.
- Doğukan Güngör, known for his role in the TV series Kızılcık Şerbeti, was taken into custody.
Actress Doğukan Güngör, who portrays Fatih in the television series Kızılcık Şerbeti, was taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation. Seventeen individuals have been arrested to date.
What are the charges facing those involved in the investigation? The suspects are accused of purchasing, possessing, or using drugs or stimulants.
On December 18, a simultaneous operation across seven Istanbul districts – Sarıyer, Eyüpsultan, Şişli, Üsküdar, Bakırköy, and Esenyurt – led to the detention of actress İrem Sak, social media phenomenon Danla Bilic, Mümine Senna Yıldız, and singer Aleyna Tilki. All four were released after providing blood and hair samples for testing.
Singer Yusuf Güney and actress Melisa Döngel were also released after submitting samples. Şeyma Subaşı, who had an arrest warrant issued against her, was detained upon her return to the USA and subsequently released under judicial control.
Arrest warrants remain outstanding for Şevval Şahin, Mert Vidinli, and Kasım Garipoğlu. Authorities have seized the assets of these individuals as the investigation continues.
The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has been conducting operations related to the case since October 8, gathering evidence and testimony from a wide range of individuals within the entertainment industry.
