Turkish police have detained 68 people out of 80 sought in a money laundering investigation tied to İstanbul’s Grand Bazaar, prosecutors said Tuesday.
The İstanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office said the detentions were carried out in simultaneous raids in İstanbul and 14 other provinces.
Prosecutors said the investigation focuses on alleged laundering of criminal proceeds through foreign exchange activity linked to the Grand Bazaar area.
The Grand Bazaar is a historic covered market in İstanbul that dates to the 15th century and is a major tourist destination.
In a written statement prosecutors said money was obtained through foreign exchange-style investment schemes, cyber enabled fraud and illegal online betting.
They alleged the funds were moved through front companies and personal bank accounts to enter the banking system, saying the money was then transferred to crypto companies and sent abroad.
As part of the operation, authorities seized 28 vehicles, 41 properties, 11 residences and eight workplaces.