Galatasaray fan leader detained over alleged ticket fraud and unrest

The historic leader of Galatasaray’s main supporters’ group, UltrAslan, has been detained as part of a wide-ranging investigation by prosecutors in Istanbul.

Sabahattin Sirin, whose real name is Muzaffer Sirin, is facing a series of allegations including organised fraud linked to the black-market sale of match tickets, possession and use of illegal drugs, spreading misleading information and causing disorder inside sports stadiums.

Sirin was taken into custody on Sunday, according to Turkish media reports, following a police raid on his home that lasted eight and a half hours. Investigators reportedly discovered large amounts of cash, valuables and weapons during the operation.

The items seized allegedly included more than $1.3m (£1m) in US dollars, €840,000 (£725,000), worth approximately $970,000, as well as gold, jewellery and cash in a number of different currencies.

Police also reportedly found a pistol, ammunition and four bulletproof vests at the property.

The detention came only a day after Sirin posted a controversial message on X in which he accused Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gurlek of being part of an “organisation within the state that wants Fenerbahce to be crowned champions this season” instead of Galatasaray.

There has been no official response so far from Gurlek or Fenerbahce, Galatasaray’s long-standing rivals.

Galatasaray are the reigning Turkish top-flight champions, while Fenerbahce are among their principal challengers. The rivalry between the Istanbul clubs is one of the most intense in Turkish football, and accusations of institutional interference can carry significant weight among supporters.

UltrAslan is the largest and most prominent supporters’ group associated with Galatasaray. Sirin has long been identified as its leading figure, making his arrest a major development in both the investigation and the wider Turkish football community.

The case is being handled by the Istanbul Public Prosecutor’s Office. The allegations against Sirin remain subject to the legal process, and no conviction has been reported.

Turkish authorities have not publicly detailed the full scope of the investigation or explained whether further arrests are expected. The reported discovery of cash, valuables, weapons and protective equipment has nevertheless added to the impact of the case, which has already attracted widespread attention across the country’s sporting and political spheres.