Tensions surrounding cryptocurrencies in Turkey have intensified again. Authorities have arrested Gökalp İçer, CEO of the Turkish crypto exchange ICRYPEX, who now faces serious charges — including attempted murder, drug distribution, and alleged ties to a well-known journalist critical of President Erdogan.

🔹 Crypto Boss Accused of Drugging and Attempted Murder

İçer was detained in Istanbul after allegedly providing drugs to a person identified only by the initials G.Ç., who was hospitalized in critical condition on July 14 after ingesting the substances. Prosecutors are now investigating İçer for “attempted murder with probable intent.” The victim remains in critical condition as the case unfolds under the supervision of Istanbul’s public prosecutor’s office.

🔹 ICRYPEX's Global Ambitions in Peril

Founded in 2018, ICRYPEX quickly grew beyond the Turkish market, opening offices in Dubai, London, and Toronto, with plans to expand into Latin America and South Africa.

But this scandal could derail those ambitions—especially at a time when Turkish authorities are cracking down hard on unlicensed crypto services, having already blocked dozens of crypto-related websites.

🧠 Tied to Journalist Altaylı

İçer’s arrest follows the recent jailing of Fatih Altaylı, a prominent journalist and former TV host, known for his open criticism of Erdogan's leadership.

According to Turkish media, ICRYPEX sponsored Altaylı’s YouTube channel, where he made several political commentaries — one of which led to his detention and arrest on June 21 on charges of “threatening the president.”

In a livestream, Altaylı commented that historically, Turks have always questioned authority — even during the Ottoman Empire — and referenced polls showing that 70% of the population opposes Erdogan staying in power indefinitely.

Prosecutors interpreted the remarks as a direct threat. Altaylı denied the charges and submitted the full recording, claiming it was taken out of context.

“There’s absolutely nothing in my speech that could be interpreted as a threat,” he told the court.

“My words were distorted intentionally. I did not threaten President Erdogan. I only referred to historical patterns. I reject the charges.”

Despite this, the court ruled that his comments constituted a criminal threat and ordered his detention — sparking public outcry among journalists and calls for his release.

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