Scandal unfolds in Istanbul welfare group amid Türkiye’s growing stray crisis

Türkiye’s stray animal issue has been a hot topic recently, especially after a new law targeting strays sparked public outrage.

Amid this, a scandal involving an animal welfare association in Istanbul has come to light.

Moreover, concerns over the effectiveness of animal shelters are also growing.

30M Turkish lira diverted

A report by the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) found that the “Silivri Canlari 2. Hayat Melekleri” association in Istanbul’s Silivri district received around ₺37 billion ($1,087,018,190.00) between 2021 and 2024. Of this, ₺30 million ($881,366.10), collected as donations, was diverted into the personal accounts of the association’s president and administrators.

Some of these funds were reportedly laundered through a cosmetic company.

Authorities arrested the association manager identified as M.Y. and the official A.M.H. on Aug. 1. During a search, ₺230,000 in unregistered cash was seized. M.Y. was jailed, while A.M.H. was released under judicial control.

A further operation on Aug. 28 led to the arrest of five suspects, including the owner of the cosmetic company, for their roles in the embezzlement and money laundering scheme.