A Turkish prosecutor’s office said on Thursday it ordered the seizure of the companies of Can Holding, owner of major media outlets and schools, in an investigation into money laundering, tax evasion and organised crime.
Can Holding owns major television channels Haberturk, Show TV and Bloomberg HT, which it acquired from Turkey’s Ciner Group late last year. Can also owns Istanbul Bilgi University and private schools franchise Doga Koleji, according to its website.
Istanbul’s Kucukcekmece prosecutor’s office said in a statement Can Holding and its owners were using their companies to move money illegally and forging documents. It said an organised crime ring was established by Can Holding owners Mehmet Sakir Can and Kemal Can.
It said Turkey’s financial crimes investigation unit had inspected Can Holding’s documents and accounts, finding that it was illegally obtaining funds, evading tax regulations, while financing operations through illegal funds.
“As part of the operation, assets of 121 companies were seized, TMSF was appointed as a trustee, and detention orders were issued for 10 suspects,” it said, referring to Turkey’s Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF).
TMSF said its priority during this period was to protect the rights of employees and third parties, and to ensure uninterrupted business operations. It said that all companies under its management will be run in line with legal requirements. [Reuters]
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