Turkey’s High-Profile Drug Probe Detains Celebrities, Issues Warrants for Others

On 21 May 2026, the Bakirköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office ordered raids on 25 addresses in Istanbul’s Besiktas, Sariyer, Beyoglu, Kagithane, Üsküdar districts and in Mugla, citing digital evidence and tip-offs that suggested drug use by public figures.

First statement from Serenay Sarikaya, for whom an arrest warrant was issued! 17 famous names detained.

Fourteen people were taken into custody and eleven received arrest warrants while abroad. Detained individuals included actress Serenay Sarikaya (arrest warrant), singers Mabel Matiz (Fatih Karaca) and Tan Tasçi (arrest warrant), journalist Mirgün Sirri Cabas (arrest warrant), and musicians Berkay Sahin, Onur Tuna, Volkan Bahçekapili, and Osman Haktan Canevi. The operation covered five Istanbul districts and Mugla; digital material seized is now part of the case file.

Detention warrant issued for Mirgün Cabas, who is mourning his father! First statement arrives.

Serenay Sarikaya said she learned of the warrant abroad, will return promptly, and will follow procedures. Tan Tasçi expressed surprise, is working with his lawyer, and confirmed his concerts will continue. Mirgün Sirri Cabas, grieving his father’s death, said his lawyers are in contact with investigators and he will act when informed. Prosecutors said analysis of seized digital evidence continues.

Detention warrant issued for Mirgün Cabas, who is mourning his father! First statement arrives.

Sources list both 14 detainees and 17 famous names, creating ambiguity about who is detained versus who only has a warrant. No details on alleged substances, digital-material findings, or court dates were given, and no public criticism was reported.

First statement from Serenay Sarikaya, for whom an arrest warrant was issued! 17 famous names detained.

• “Hello… I received the news while on a long-planned trip abroad… I will return to my country as soon as possible and fulfill all necessary procedures, just like everyone else… I am fine, there is no problem. Love to everyone who is concerned…” — Serenay Sarikaya, actress

First statement from Serenay Sarikaya, for whom an arrest warrant was issued! 17 famous names detained.

• “I learned that my name was mentioned in this drug operation from social media and gossip columns, just like you. Honestly, I am also surprised. I am currently at my home in Bodrum and about to head to Izmir for our planned concerts. I am following the official process through my lawyer and waiting for detailed information from him.” — Tan Tasçi, singer

First statement from Serenay Sarikaya, for whom an arrest warrant was issued! 17 famous names detained.

• “I DID NOT CANCEL MY CONCERTS” — Tan Tasçi, singer

First statement from Serenay Sarikaya, for whom an arrest warrant was issued! 17 famous names detained.

• “I learned this morning from the press that my name is mentioned in an investigation. I lost my father yesterday, I am in Izmir for my father's funeral. My lawyers are in contact with the investigation authorities, and I will take necessary action once I have information. Don't worry.” — Mirgün Sirri Cabas, journalist

Detention warrant issued for Mirgün Cabas, who is mourning his father! First statement arrives.

Prosecutors said the analysis of seized digital material will continue and that the legal process for the detained and warrant-issued individuals is ongoing. Serenay Sarikaya has indicated she will return to Turkey to comply with the warrant, while the other named figures are preparing legal defenses.

First statement from Serenay Sarikaya, for whom an arrest warrant was issued! 17 famous names detained.