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An Istanbul court on Thursday released Istanbul club Fenerbahce President Saadettin Saran under judicial control following his detention in a broad narcotics investigation that has implicated several public figures across Türkiye.
Saran, a Turkish-American businessman who also heads the media, tourism, and aviation conglomerate Saran Holding, was detained on Wednesday evening after forensic tests on his hair sample returned positive for illicit substances, while his blood, urine, and nail samples tested negative.
Within the probe, authorities were scrutinizing Saran for allegations of supplying narcotics, facilitating drug use, and personal drug consumption.
Last week, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office summoned him to testify, prompting him to cancel ongoing transfer negotiations he had been pursuing in Italy and return to Türkiye. Following his statement, he was referred to the Forensic Medicine Institute for toxicological analysis.
On Wednesday, the subsequent report confirmed the presence of narcotics in his hair sample, a result he rejected while stating that his legal team would formally request a repeat analysis. Following his detention, the court ruled that he be placed under judicial control.
Supporters of Fenerbahce gathered outside the Caglayan Courthouse to show solidarity with Saran, chanting slogans in his support. Members of the club’s board of directors also arrived at the courthouse to offer their backing.
Saran, 61, assumed the presidency of Istanbul’s Fenerbahce in September, succeeding long-time president Ali Koc after defeating him in the club’s presidential election.
According to the club’s bylaws, a criminal conviction could lead to the termination of his presidency. As of now, no formal charges have been filed and the investigation remains ongoing.
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