New details have emerged in the “Alihan Kuriş Criminal Organization” investigation led by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. Hilmi Tuna Kuriş and Erhan Yılmaz, who were wanted as fugitives in the investigation, were apprehended in Muğla during an operation by security forces.
Authorities assessed that Hilmi Tuna Kuriş and Erhan Yılmaz were preparing to flee abroad. After their locations were identified, security units took action and apprehended the two men in the Muğla area.
€58,000 found in the vehicle
A search conducted after the operation revealed notable details. €58,000 was found in the 2024 Volvo S90 with license plate 34 in which Hilmi Tuna Kuriş was apprehended.
An examination of the vehicle’s registration records showed that the car was registered to San Sistem Lojistik.
One of the most notable details in the investigation concerned the vehicle’s allocation records. The vehicle had been allocated in the name of former Interior Minister İdris Naim Şahin as a priority-passage vehicle until 2030.
Unauthorized flashing lights found
A police inspection found that the vehicle’s illuminated warning systems were also being used in breach of regulations.
After unauthorized illuminated warning systems were found in the front and rear window areas, traffic officers took action.
The vehicle was taken off the road for one month.
Hilmi Tuna Kuriş and Erhan Yılmaz apprehended
Hilmi Tuna Kuriş is known as the brother of Alihan Kuriş, who was previously arrested as part of the investigation. Erhan Yılmaz, who was also being sought alongside Kuriş, was apprehended during the operation.
Operations targeting Alihan Kuriş and individuals alleged to be connected to him in the investigation led by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office had previously drawn public attention.
The apprehension of Hilmi Tuna Kuriş and Erhan Yılmaz marks a significant development in the investigation’s pursuit of fugitives. No official information has been released at this stage about the source of the €58,000 found in the vehicle or its intended use.
Details about the process under which the vehicle was allocated in İdris Naim Şahin’s name and how the suspects used it are also expected to become clear as the investigation progresses.
Judicial proceedings under the investigation are continuing.
