Turkey's: Police confiscate guns, money in Oktar probe

By Halil Demir

ISTANBUL (AA) - Istanbul police on Friday seized a large ammunition, over one million Turkish liras, and more than 2,500 digital documents as part of a probe of controversial Turkish televangelist Adnan Oktar.

According to security sources speaking on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to media, 1.5 million Turkish liras ($312,000), 96 pistols, and 23 rifles were confiscated during the operation across the city.

Oktar was arrested on July 10 as police also searched for people suspected of links to his cult-like organization.

On Tuesday, an Istanbul court remanded Oktar along with 168 others for allegedly committing numerous crimes.

His group has been accused of crimes including establishing a criminal organization, child sexual abuse, sexual intercourse with a minor, kidnapping, violating tax law, and violating the anti-terrorism law.

Oktar's TV channel broadcast his shows on religious and social issues surrounded by women he referred to as his “kittens."