Turkish Intelligence Detains Two Mossad Suspects in Istanbul

Security sources said the operation followed a long-term intelligence and surveillance effort targeting a Mossad-linked network operating inside Türkiye.

Coordinated Operation with Prosecutors and Police

The operation was conducted jointly by MİT, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, and the Istanbul Police Department’s Counterterrorism Branch. Two suspects—Mehmet Budak Derya and Veysel Kerimoğlu—were taken into custody in Istanbul on charges of espionage on behalf of Mossad.

Authorities said the suspects were involved in systematic intelligence-gathering activities inside Türkiye.

Business Ties Used as Cover

According to security sources, Mehmet Budak Derya, a mining engineer who operates a marble quarry in Silifke, Mersin province, first came to the attention of Israeli intelligence through his international trade activities dating back to 2005.

In September 2012, Derya was reportedly visited at his office by an individual using the alias “Ali Ahmed Yassin,” described as a representative of an Israeli front company. He was later invited to Europe in January 2013 under the pretext of business opportunities, where he allegedly made his first direct contact with Mossad operatives.

Surveillance of Palestinian Figures

Acting on Mossad instructions, Derya is accused of recruiting Veysel Kerimoğlu, a Turkish citizen of Palestinian origin. Using his regional network, Kerimoğlu allegedly collected intelligence on Palestinian figures opposed to Israel.

Security officials said photographs of sensitive storage sites in Gaza and other intelligence materials were transmitted directly to Israeli intelligence. Investigators determined that Kerimoğlu’s salary and operational expenses were paid by Mossad.

Links to 2016 Tunisia Assassination

One of the most striking findings of the investigation concerns the 2016 assassination of Mohamed Zouari in Tunisia. Authorities said Derya and Kerimoğlu attempted to sell drone components to Zouari using samples supplied by Mossad and had commercial contact with him prior to the killing.

Polygraph Tests and Encrypted Communications

As part of Mossad’s security protocols, Derya was reportedly subjected to polygraph tests twice—once in an Asian country in 2016 and again in a European country in August 2024.

Investigators also found that the suspects used encrypted communication systems. Technical data from SIM cards, modems, and routers obtained in Türkiye—including MAC addresses and passwords—were allegedly shared with Israeli intelligence.

Large-Scale Logistics Operation Uncovered

During a final meeting held in Europe in January 2026, MİT uncovered plans for a large-scale Mossad logistics operation coordinated through Derya. The plan reportedly involved infiltrating international supply chains via front companies established abroad.

Products were to be sourced from selected countries, repackaged and stored through three Asia-based companies, and then delivered to designated end users. Authorities assessed the plan as preparation for a covert logistics operation targeting specific countries and institutions.

Detentions at Final Planning Stage

Following close surveillance, MİT moved in during the final planning phase in January 2026. Mehmet Budak Derya and Veysel Kerimoğlu were detained, and legal proceedings are ongoing.

Officials said the investigation is continuing and could expand as additional details emerge.