Courthouse officer flees Turkey after stealing 25 kilos of gold meant for evidence

Turkish authorities have launched a wide-ranging investigation after 25 kilograms of gold and 50 kilograms of silver vanished from the evidence vault of the Büyükçekmece Courthouse. 

The disappearance came to light when officials noticed that Erdal T., the custodian responsible for the bureau, had been absent from work for an unusually long time. Growing suspicious, prosecutors ordered the safes to be opened using keys held by another staff member, Kemal D. Inside, the safes were found completely empty.

Early findings indicate that on Nov. 19, Erdal T. fled Türkiye with his wife, Esma T., and their children, departing from Sabiha Gökçen Airport on a flight to the United Kingdom. An arrest warrant has been issued for the couple, while Kemal D. has been detained.

Authorities have taken statements from all bureau employees, including the head of administrative affairs. A search of the suspects’ home revealed no evidence. 

Investigators are continuing to examine security footage and have requested historical traffic search (HTS) records for the suspects’ phones. The detention period for Kemal D. has also been extended.