How Turkey became a mafia base?

Introduction

Organized crime has woven a complex tapestry within Turkey, where rival gangs engage in deadly struggles for supremacy. The story of the Azerbaijani gang leader Ali Haydar and his nemesis from the “Korku İmparatorluğu” (Fear Empire) unfolds with shocking intensity, leaving a trail of bloodshed. The clash in Edirne on June 9, 2014, marked a tragic turning point, as the police intervened, resulting in the death of Officer Hüseyin İmra, leaving his pregnant wife devastated. This article delves into the intricate web of international criminal activities that have found a fertile ground in Turkey.

The Allure of Turkey for International Criminals

In recent years, Turkey has become a hotspot for international criminal organizations, drawn by the allure of evading law enforcement and capitalizing on the country’s porous legal system. Nadir Salifov, a notorious figure, roamed freely in Turkey for four years, enjoying the cloak of impunity. Even when finally apprehended in 2018, he mysteriously avoided prosecution, raising questions about the influence of powerful figures and the loopholes in Turkey’s legal apparatus.

The Seductive Power of Corruption

Sedat Peker, a well-known organized crime figure, revealed in his exposés the intricate connections between criminals and influential politicians. The shocking revelation that a high-profile criminal, Mahir, who killed a police officer, was set free and even managed to escape the country with a judge’s approval, underscores the deep-seated corruption that undermines the rule of law.

The Shadow of Deep State and Deceptive Extraditions

The term “deep state” takes on a chilling significance in the narrative of Nadir Salifov. Despite facing multiple charges, including murder, he was not prosecuted but rather deported under mysterious circumstances. Sedat Peker’s claims of political interference, with requests to release certain criminals, further fuel the perception that organized crime can thrive under the protective wing of influential figures.

International Mafia’s Playground

Turkey has unwittingly become a playground for international mafias, exploiting the lax implementation of Constitutional Court decisions and a legal system plagued by non-compliance. Nadir Salifov’s ability to operate freely for four years despite serious criminal charges exemplifies the international mafia’s perception of Turkey as a new hub.

The Cat-and-Mouse Game of Crime and Justice

The cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and criminal organizations is evident in the tale of Nadir Salifov. Despite being deported, he swiftly returned under a false identity. The narrative showcases the challenges faced by Turkish authorities in dealing with criminals who exploit legal gaps and engage in elaborate schemes to elude justice.

The Rise of Crime Tourism

Crime tourism, facilitated by Turkey’s lenient laws, emerges as a concerning trend. Criminals with financial means exploit legal loopholes, establishing a nexus between illegal activities, wealth acquisition, and attempts to secure Turkish citizenship. The case of Rava Majid, acquiring Turkish citizenship through a villa purchase in Bodrum, highlights the challenges faced by authorities in preventing criminal elements from infiltrating the country.

The Shadow of the 90s: The Legacy of Black Money

The 90s, often remembered for economic crises and turmoil, left a legacy of black money and illicit practices. The belief that black money eased the economic hardships of that era contrasts with the long-term social and economic problems it has brought. The analogy drawn to a soldier receiving morphine for immediate relief, while the underlying wound remains untreated, underscores the detrimental effects of relying on illicit means.

Global Clash of Mafias in Istanbul

Istanbul, once a thriving cultural and economic hub, has become a battleground for global mafias. The clash between Serbian, Azerbaijani, and even Swedish mafias within the city’s borders poses a significant threat. The motivations behind the involvement of the Swedish mafia in Istanbul, illustrated by the ease of recruiting young triggermen, raise concerns about Turkey’s vulnerability to international crime networks.

Turkey’s Struggle for Control

The narrative unfolds as a chronicle of Turkey’s ongoing struggle to control organized crime. With international criminals finding refuge within its borders, the Turkish government faces a daunting challenge in dismantling these networks. The recent operations and arrests, symbolized by Operation Cage Code, indicate a newfound determination to confront the complex and multifaceted nature of organized crime.

Conclusion

Turkey finds itself at the crossroads of a global struggle against organized crime. The intricate dance between criminals and authorities, the shadow of corruption and political influence, and the challenges posed by international criminals seeking refuge create a perplexing scenario. As Turkey navigates these challenges, the imperative is clear — a comprehensive and unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and dismantling the networks that threaten its stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Turkey’s legal system equipped to combat international organized crime?

• The legal system in Turkey faces challenges in combating international organized crime due to loopholes, corruption, and political influence. While efforts are underway, more comprehensive reforms may be needed.

How does corruption contribute to the thriving organized crime in Turkey?

• Corruption within the system, as highlighted by figures like Sedat Peker, creates an environment where criminals can operate with impunity. Connections between criminals and influential politicians raise questions about the integrity of law enforcement.

What role does the concept of “deep state” play in organized crime in Turkey?

• The term “deep state” in Turkey refers to a secretive and influential network within the government. Allegations of its involvement in protecting certain criminals, as seen in cases like Nadir Salifov’s deportation, add a layer of complexity to the battle against organized crime.

How does crime tourism affect Turkey, and what measures are in place to address it?

• Crime tourism, where criminals exploit legal loopholes for financial gain and citizenship, poses a threat to Turkey. Authorities are faced with the challenge of implementing effective measures to prevent criminals from infiltrating the country.

What are the implications of the clash between global mafias in Istanbul?

• The clash between Serbian, Azerbaijani, and Swedish mafias in Istanbul raises concerns about the city becoming a battleground for international crime networks. The involvement of the Swedish mafia, in particular, highlights Turkey’s vulnerability to external criminal influences.

How is Turkey addressing the challenges posed by organized crime, as seen in Operation Cage Code?

• Operations like Cage Code indicate a renewed commitment by Turkish authorities to confront organized crime. The success of such operations depends on sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks and address systemic issues within the legal and law enforcement frameworks.