ISTANBUL (AP) – In a recent operation, police in Istanbul seized jewels and antiques valued at approximately $30 million from various businesses located within the historic Grand Bazaar. This operation was part of a larger investigation targeting smuggling activities related to diamonds, as reported by Turkish media outlets on Wednesday.
The investigation commenced after authorities detained 10 individuals suspected of smuggling gems into Turkey. Following the initial arrests, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office ordered a series of police raids across 23 businesses in the 15th-century covered marketplace. This resulted in the arrest of an additional 40 people.
During the police operation, authorities confiscated an impressive haul that included around 135 pieces of jewelry, 1,132 ingots of precious metals, and 267 historical artifacts. The total value of these items amounted to 1.25 billion Turkish liras, which is roughly equivalent to $30.5 million. In addition to the jewels and artifacts, law enforcement also seized firearms and various digital materials, though specific details regarding the nature of the digital content were not disclosed.
The Grand Bazaar, established by Sultan Mehmet II shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul from the Byzantine Empire, is recognized as one of the world's most visited tourist attractions. This historic marketplace is home to thousands of small shops and has been frequently referenced as the world’s first shopping mall. Its extensive range of goods, from intricate jewelry to historical artifacts, makes it a focal point for both tourists and local trade.
The Grand Bazaar's association with law enforcement is not new. Earlier this year, in April, investigators conducted a raid on a business that specialized in foreign currency and precious metals, prompted by concerns over alleged money-laundering activities. This demonstrates an ongoing vigilance by Turkish authorities to combat smuggling and illegal financial practices within this significant commercial and cultural hub.
The recent police operation underscores the complexities of regulating trade within such a busy marketplace, where the allure of valuable gems and historical treasures can sometimes attract illicit activities. The scale of the seizure reflects the broader challenges faced in combating smuggling operations in Turkey, particularly given the importance of preserving the integrity of cultural heritage and economic stability.
