Aussie Cartel Operatives in Turkey Exposed in Police Leak
A series of police intelligence reports and internal emails have revealed details about the operations of alleged Australian criminals in Turkey. The documents emerged as part of a legal challenge by alleged crime boss Masood Zakaria, who argues his 2023 deportation to Australia was illegal.
Masood Zakaria is believed to have fled Australia in December 2021, days before arrest warrants were issued for two counts of murder. Police theorize he escaped by fishing vessel to Asia. He was arrested in Mugla, Turkey in January 2023 alongside other Australian nationals.
The "Aussie Cartel" in Istanbul
Police documents describe an "Aussie Cartel" based in Istanbul, including Hakan Ayik, Hakan Arif, and Hasan Topal, accused of major drug importations to Australia.
Intelligence reports indicate Zakaria was seen with Hakan Arif in Turkey and was expected to travel to Bodrum for the summer.
A Betrayal and Arrest
One report claims Zakaria provided money to Arif for a money laundering scheme. Arif allegedly stole the funds and then informed Turkish authorities, leading to Zakaria's arrest.
Internal emails show police believed Zakaria had been tipped off about his impending arrest by corrupt officials.
Legal Challenge
Zakaria's deportation is being challenged in court as potentially illegal. He seeks to have charges permanently stayed.