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In high-stakes deception, a man posing as a Turkish intelligence officer scammed over $2.5 million from jewelers in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. The suspect, identified as Omer Binici, was arrested on April 30 while arriving at a luxury restaurant in a flashing-light convoy, accompanied by fake bodyguards.
According to Patronlar Dunyasi, Binici allegedly introduced himself as an executive of a covert unit tied to both the Presidency and Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT). He targeted high-profile jewelers in the historical Grand Bazaar, convincing them with an elaborate act involving bodyguards, luxury venues, and official-looking vehicles with sirens.
He was first introduced to jeweler Berk O. by another jeweler, Garabet S., who described Binici as a “powerful man within the state,” claiming he had access to privileged intelligence and presidential contacts. As a result Binici gained Berk O.’s trust.
In multiple meetings held at upscale restaurants, Binici extracted a total of $400,000 from the jeweler—first $100,000, then $300,000. Surveillance footage later revealed that $30,000 of this amount was handed over to Garabet S. as a commission.
According to the Istanbul Gendarmerie Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime Division (KOM), the fraudulent network led by Binici orchestrated scams totaling over $2.5 million. His arrest took place while entering a luxury restaurant in a convoy resembling an official motorcade.
Searches at the scene yielded critical documents and digital evidence showing transactions involving large sums taken from victims. Investigators also recovered forged credentials and official-looking documents.
Following an investigation by the Bakirkoy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, Binici was referred for arrest and subsequently jailed. Authorities confirmed that Binici caused financial harm estimated at 100 million Turkish liras.
Alongside Binici, Garabet S. and two other individuals—who allegedly facilitated introductions to victims—were also arrested. All suspects’ assets have been seized as part of the legal proceedings.
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