0
0
Turkish authorities have arrested two suspects accused of working for Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, in Istanbul. The arrests followed a long counter espionage operation led by Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization, known as MIT.
Officials said the operation uncovered a hidden network that passed sensitive information outside the country.
Turkish Intelligence Makes Arrests
Security forces arrested Mehmet Budak Derya and Veysel Kerimoglu in coordinated raids across Istanbul. MIT worked with the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Istanbul Police during the operation.
Investigators said Derya works as a mining engineer and started a company in 2005. He later expanded into international trade. His foreign business links reportedly drew the interest of Israeli intelligence.
In 2012, a man using the alias Ali Ahmed Yassin visited Derya’s office and offered cooperation. By early 2013, Derya met Mossad operatives in Europe.
Meetings Took Place Abroad
According to officials, a Mossad officer known as Luis asked Derya to recruit Kerimoglu. Kerimoglu is a Turkish citizen of Palestinian origin. Both men then reported their contacts and activities.
Authorities said Derya met several Mossad handlers in different European countries. These handlers used code names such as Luis, Jose, Roberto, Dan, Mark, Elly and Michael.
The suspects allegedly gathered information through business and social contacts. They focused on Palestinians critical of Israeli policy. They then sent details about people and locations to Israeli intelligence.
Alleged Surveillance Activities
Investigators say Derya tried to enter Gaza to inspect warehouse facilities. He also took photos and sent them to Mossad.
The suspects also collected technical data. This included serial numbers and device details from SIM cards, modems and routers. They sent this information abroad, according to the case file.
Drone Parts Trade Claim
Officials also claim Kerimoglu suggested entering the drone parts business in 2016. He passed the idea to Israeli intelligence. Mossad later sent sample parts, according to investigators.
Authorities linked the talks to Mohamed Zouari, who was killed in Tunisia in 2016. Many reports blamed Israel for that attack.
Encrypted Tools and Tests
Investigators say Mossad gave Derya encrypted communication tools. They also tested him twice with polygraph exams. One test took place in Asia in 2016. Another happened in Europe in 2024.
After he passed both tests, officials say Mossad allowed him to take on bigger tasks.
Investigation Continues
Turkish authorities are still reviewing evidence. If courts confirm the claims, the suspects may face charges under Turkish law.
Officials say the case shows Türkiye’s effort to stop foreign intelligence activity inside the country.
Conclusion
The arrest of two alleged Mossad operatives in Istanbul highlights growing counter espionage work in Türkiye. Investigators accuse the suspects of gathering and sharing sensitive data with Israeli intelligence. The case remains under active review.
