Significant Gold and Silver Theft Rocks Büyükçekmece Courthouse; Suspect Sought in England
istanbul, Turkey – A major investigation is underway following the discovery of a significant theft at the Büyükçekmece courthouse in Istanbul. Authorities confirmed that approximately 25 kilograms of gold and 50 kilograms of silver are missing from the escrow office of the Büyükçekmece Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The incident came to light yesterday when concerns were raised regarding the prolonged absence of Erdal T., an officer responsible for managing the escrow office. Acting on suspicion, the prosecutor’s office authorized the opening of the office safes, for which Erdal T. held the keys. The safes were found to be completely empty.
Suspect Flees to England, Arrest Warrant Issued
Investigations quickly revealed that Erdal T.,along with his wife,Esma T., and their children, had departed Turkey from Sabiha Gökçen Airport on November 19, 2025, at 08:22 local time, bound for England. An immediate arrest warrant was issued for both Erdal T. and Esma T.
Another individual, Kemal D., who also held a position of responsibility within the escrow office, has been detained in connection with the case. Authorities have conducted interviews with all personnel working in the escrow office,including senior leadership,to gather information and establish a timeline of events.
A search of the suspects’ home addresses, authorized by the Criminal Court of Peace, yielded no immediate evidence related to the stolen gold and silver. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Currently, investigators are meticulously reviewing security camera footage from the courthouse and have requested detailed call records (HTS records) for the phones of the suspects. Kemal D.remains in detention, with authorities securing an extension to continue questioning.
The scale of the theft has prompted a high-level response from Turkish law enforcement, and international cooperation is expected to facilitate the apprehension of Erdal T. and his wife. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
