Ekol TV Money Laundering Probe Transferred to Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office
Istanbul, January 9 – A significant development has occurred in the money laundering investigation surrounding Ekol TV. The case, involving 12 suspects including alleged mastermind Veysel Şahin, Mübariz Mansimov, Chairman of the Board Emrah Doğru, Board Member Arif Çetin, and lawyer Ersan Şen, has been transferred to the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office following a decision of lack of jurisdiction.
Investigation Initiated by Anonymous Tip and Witness Testimony
The investigation was initially launched by the Küçükçekmece Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office based on statements from a confidential witness and incoming tips. The probe began amid allegations that Ekol TV’s funding sources were linked to illegal betting and money laundering activities. The channel’s management and key figures behind its operations have been under scrutiny.
Address Change Leads to Jurisdiction Transfer
According to information obtained by SABAH, a notable move occurred during the ongoing investigation. After Ekol TV decided to cease operations, it was discovered that the company’s headquarters had been moved to the Kağıthane district. This change of address prompted the Küçükçekmece Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office to issue a decision of lack of jurisdiction, subsequently transferring the investigation to the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office.
12 Suspects and MASAK Report Pending
The case involves a total of one confidential witness and 12 suspects. The Küçükçekmece Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office had reportedly requested a comprehensive report from the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK). The 12 suspects named in the file, which is being investigated by the Istanbul Police Department’s Financial Crimes Branch, include Veysel Şahin (the primary suspect), Mübariz Mansimov, Emrah Doğru (Chairman of the Board), Arif Çetin (Board Member), and Ersan Şen (Lawyer).
Deepening Investigation into Money Laundering and Financial Irregularities
The investigation is being intensified within the framework of “laundering asset values derived from crime” and “financial irregularities.” The MASAK report, once received, is expected to clarify the channel’s capital structure and money flow, which will be crucial in determining the course of the investigation.
