ISTANBUL — Sadettin Saran, the high-profile chairman of Turkish sports giant Fenerbahce, underwent police interrogation Saturday as part of a sweeping narcotics investigation that has ensnared numerous celebrities and media personalities. The state-operated Anadolu Agency confirmed that Saran, who possesses dual Turkish-American citizenship, provided an official statement to authorities upon returning from international travel. Following his deposition, he was escorted to a medical facility for compulsory blood and hair sample collection to screen for illicit substances.
This development represents the latest escalation in an extensive probe initiated by the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s Office earlier this December. The investigation has already resulted in the detention of over a dozen prominent figures from television journalism, music, acting, and social media influencing circles. Charges range from narcotics production and distribution to involvement in organized prostitution activities.
According to judicial sources, Saran faced specific allegations related to enabling and supplying controlled substances. After completing forensic testing at the Caglayan Courthouse complex, the sports executive was released subject to ongoing judicial supervision requirements. The case continues to develop as prosecutors examine potential connections between entertainment industry elites and underground narcotics networks.
Fenerbahce’s institutional history adds contextual significance to these developments. The club previously endured governance challenges when former president Aziz Yildirim served prison time between 2012-2013 regarding match-fixing allegations. Those convictions were ultimately overturned due to judicial corruption affecting the original proceedings. Separately, the organization remains connected to an ongoing inquiry into systemic match-fixing within Turkish professional football.