Turkey Secures Extradition of Major Drug Lord 'Don Vito' from UAE

Major Drug Trafficker Extradited to Turkey

Turkish authorities have announced the successful extradition of Abdullah Alp Üstün, a significant international drug lord known by the alias 'Don Vito,' from the United Arab Emirates. The extradition, which also included Üstün's chief financier, Hasan Lala, took place on the morning of October 11, 2025. The operation marks a notable achievement in Turkey's ongoing efforts against organized crime.

Key Figures and Criminal Allegations

Abdullah Alp Üstün was identified as the ringleader of the 'CHROOKE' criminal organization. He was subject to an Interpol Red Notice for serious charges, including 'laundering assets derived from crime, trafficking or procuring drugs or stimulants, and establishing an organization for the purpose of committing crime.' His associate, Hasan Lala, was responsible for the financial transactions within the same criminal network and was wanted under an Interpol Red Diffusion (Emergency Capture Message) for 'being a member of an organization established for the purpose of committing crimes, importing narcotic substances, and money laundering.'

Coordinated International Operation

The successful extradition was the result of a coordinated effort between Turkish and Emirati law enforcement agencies. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the transfer, stating that the suspects were apprehended through joint operations involving the General Directorate of Security's Interpol-Europol Department, the drug enforcement directorate, the intelligence directorate, UAE security units, and the Istanbul Provincial Police Department. Minister Yerlikaya emphasized the importance of international collaboration in combating transnational crime, stating, 'With our international cooperation, we will continue to capture members of organized crime networks and drug traffickers and bring them back to our country.'

Turkey's Intensified Fight Against Organized Crime

This extradition underscores Turkey's intensified campaign against organized crime in recent years. The country has been strengthening its global partnerships and conducting extensive domestic operations to apprehend fugitives and dismantle criminal networks. The return of Üstün and Lala to Turkey is seen as a critical step in the global fight against drug trafficking and organized crime, demonstrating the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in bringing high-profile criminals to justice.