Detention in Istanbul Operation
Yasir Gülen, identified as the nephew of the late Muslim cleric Fethullah Gülen, was detained in Istanbul on Friday, December 19, 2025. The detention took place in the city's Ümraniye district as part of a joint operation conducted by the counterterrorism unit of the Istanbul police and the National Intelligence Organization (MİT).
Authorities issued a detention warrant for Yasir Gülen, who is the son of Fethullah Gülen's brother Salih Gülen, on accusations of 'membership in an armed terrorist organization.' The allegations against him reportedly stem from his alleged financial activities, including increased accounts at Bank Asya—a now-shuttered lender that Turkish authorities describe as a financial source for the Gülen movement—and his attendance at social gatherings linked to the movement.
Context of the Gülen Movement Crackdown
This detention is the latest in a series of actions by the Turkish government against individuals associated with the Gülen movement, which Ankara designates as the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ). The Turkish government accuses Fethullah Gülen of orchestrating the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016, an accusation the movement strongly denies.
Following the 2016 coup attempt, Turkey initiated a widespread crackdown, leading to the arrest and prosecution of tens of thousands of individuals for alleged links to the movement. Fethullah Gülen, who had been living in self-imposed exile in the United States, passed away in October 2024.
Ongoing Investigations
Officials stated that Yasir Gülen had reportedly been hiding in Istanbul, frequently changing locations to evade detection. After technical and physical surveillance, security forces traced his whereabouts, leading to his apprehension. He has been transferred to the Istanbul Counterterrorism Branch for questioning, and the investigation into his alleged activities is ongoing. This event underscores Turkey's continued efforts to pursue individuals it links to the Gülen movement, nearly a decade after the attempted coup.
5 Comments
Bella Ciao
It's crucial for any nation to protect itself from threats, and the financial ties mentioned could be concerning. However, without transparent evidence presented in court, these detentions can appear to be politically motivated rather than purely criminal.
Comandante
Financial ties to Bank Asya? Clear evidence of their illicit activities.
Coccinella
The article highlights the ongoing efforts to apprehend those linked to the Gülen movement, which many in Turkey see as a legitimate threat. Yet, the continued focus on individuals like nephews, years after the coup, makes some wonder if the pursuit has become disproportionate.
Donatello
They tried to overthrow our government. This is a rightful consequence.
BuggaBoom
This is just a political witch hunt. No real evidence, just guilt by association.