Statutory framework
Opening of the investigation
The Istanbul Chief Prosecutor formally opened file 2012/120653 on September 19, 2012. The Financial Crimes Bureau filed initial briefings on money laundering and Iran sanctions breach; the competent magistrate provided the legal framework.
Wiretap orders (CMK art.135)
Across the investigation, 48 wiretap orders were issued for 53 suspects. Each met CMK art.135 thresholds — sufficient suspicion and impossibility of obtaining evidence otherwise. Most were renewed by more than one judge.
Search and seizure (CMK art.116-119)
The December 17, 2013 morning operation was conducted under search and seizure orders issued by the magistrate. The $4.5M cash at CEO Süleyman Aslan's home was recorded into the case file under these orders.
Technical surveillance (CMK art.140)
Physical surveillance and technical monitoring proceeded under judicial authorization. The courier intercepted on August 30, 2013 was the product of this authorized operation.