Turkey: 18.9 million lira flowed between MP Enginyurt and his son, MASAK records show
New evidence in a Turkish corruption investigation reveals a money flow of 18.9 million lira between New Party Istanbul Deputy Cemal Enginyurt and his son Alptürk, according to financial intelligence records. The findings, part of an Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office probe, raise questions about the source of the family's wealth and the use of parliamentary privileges.
What do the MASAK records show about the Enginyurt family?
Anti-money laundering records (MASAK) show that Alptürk Enginyurt's bank accounts saw total inflows and outflows of approximately 15 million lira between 2021 and 2024, surging to about 25 million lira in 2025 alone. The largest single transfer was with his father, Cemal Enginyurt, amounting to 18 million 966 thousand lira. Additional transfers of 2 million 545 thousand lira to Astürk Akaryakıt and 2 million 21 thousand lira to Muhammed Kürşat Şahin were also recorded.
Why is Alptürk Enginyurt's economic power under scrutiny?
Judicial sources say Alptürk Enginyurt has no significant income or individual commercial activity. A witness told investigators,
“He is someone who makes a living with the help of his father Cemal Enginyurt.”Despite this, Alptürk allegedly runs an entertainment venue named “ÖKÜZ” in Ankara's Eryaman district with Muhammed Kürşat Şahin, and is linked to RED GYM, a business accused of selling banned substances outside official monitoring systems.
What role did the father play during a police raid?
According to the witness, police raided the “ÖKÜZ” venue while Alptürk was present. He called his father, who arrived “in a panicked manner” and spoke directly with law enforcement officers. The witness also claimed that Cemal Enginyurt's parliamentary allocated vehicle was used by Recep Ali Keydal, a man Cemal describes as his “kirve” (ritual kinsman), and by an advisor named “Cem.”
How did Cemal Enginyurt defend flashing lights in the past?
In 2019, during debates over deputies' right to use flashing lights, Enginyurt defended the privilege, saying,
“In Turkey, mafia bosses have cars with flashing lights. We use flashing lights to open up traffic when needed.”The current allegations that he shared this privilege with close associates contrast sharply with his earlier stance.
What is the current legal status of Alptürk Enginyurt?
Alptürk Enginyurt was released under judicial control, including a travel ban, after being charged with “disrupting public health” and “laundering property values arising from crime.” His father has publicly stated that his son's innocence will be proven.
Frequently asked questions
What is MASAK?
MASAK is Turkey's Financial Crimes Investigation Board, responsible for analyzing financial data to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
What is the “kirve” relationship?
In Turkish culture, “kirve” refers to a ritual kinsman, often established at circumcision ceremonies, creating a bond similar to a godparent relationship.
What is RED GYM accused of?
RED GYM is alleged to have sold protein powder, performance-enhancing products, and banned substances outside public registration and monitoring systems.