Newsletters
Istanbul police raided 23 shops in Kapalicarsi (the Grand Bazaar) as part of an August probe into unregistered diamonds, seizing 1,359.23 carats of stones and detaining 43 suspects.
Authorities said the operation targeted 23 businesses inside Kapalicarsi, the historic covered market in Istanbul known internationally as the Grand Bazaar, and related premises.
Officials reported the seizure of valuables worth ₺1.25 billion ($29.8 million) alongside historical artifacts and digital devices.
Police noted that the Grand Bazaar is a vast marketplace and clarified that the case centers on the alleged trafficking of undeclared diamonds and other precious items.
Investigators said phone records indicate the owner of the “Atilla Karat” store, Atilla Anli, reacted to news of an imminent raid on Aug. 26 by telling staff, “Gather everything and take it to the roof.”
Security footage reportedly shows his partner, Deniz Anli, and employees placing diamonds into boxes and bags and carrying them out of the shop. The inquiry also points to activity at a residence and depot in Sisli, where items were allegedly packed into suitcases before drivers transported them.
Police records list 1,359.23 carats of diamonds, 286.71 grams of gold jewelry, 18 historical coins, and nine suitcases, as well as mobile phones, a laptop, and other digital materials. Authorities said digital examinations are ongoing.
Out of 43 detainees, 30 have been arrested pending trial, while 13 were released under judicial control measures.
Those arrested include owners of jewelry firms with shops in Nuruosmaniye and Kapalicarsi. Officials added that the investigation continues.
3 min read
