5 million lira, gold found in home of football club supporter leader

An extensive police search at the residence of a prominent leader of the Galatasaray football club's main supporters' group uncovered a significant cache of cash, gold, and jewelry. Authorities found over $1.3 million (approximately 5.3 million Turkish Lira) in various currencies, along with gold and precious items, during an eight-and-a-half-hour raid.

The leader, identified as Sebahattin Sirin, was arrested on Sunday. He faces accusations including black market ticket sales, inciting public disorder within sports venues, and disseminating false information. The raid also reportedly yielded a pistol, ammunition, and four bulletproof vests, according to news agencies DHA and IHA.

This discovery follows Sirin's recent public accusations made on the social platform X. He alleged that the Turkish Minister of Justice, Akin Gurlek, was part of a government-backed group aiming to ensure the rival club Fenerbahce wins the league title at the expense of the reigning champions, Galatasaray. Neither the minister nor Fenerbahce have publicly responded to these allegations.