.png "Turkish Intelligence Arrests Kosovar Citizen for Alleged Ties with Mossad") |
| Liridon Rexhepi and moments from the action of the Turkish officers |
In a high-stakes covert operation, Turkey's National Intelligence Organization (MIT) has arrested Liridon Rexhepi, a Kosovar citizen, on suspicion of working for the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad. The arrest marks a significant development in Turkey's ongoing efforts to counter foreign intelligence activities within its borders, local media reports.
Details of the Arrest
According to reports from Turkish media, MIT identified Rexhepi as the key figure responsible for managing Mossad's financial network in Turkey. His activities allegedly included transferring funds to field agents in Turkey, who were involved in various clandestine operations. These operations reportedly ranged from conducting drone surveillance and psychological operations against Palestinian politicians to gathering intelligence related to the Syrian theater, all under the direction of the Israeli Intelligence Service.
Rexhepi's financial transactions, particularly through Western Union, were closely monitored by Turkish authorities. These transactions were flagged as suspicious and were a critical part of the evidence that led to his arrest. His movements and activities were meticulously tracked from the moment he entered Turkey on August 25, 2024, culminating in a coordinated effort with the Istanbul Police Department’s Counter-Terrorism and Operations Branch.
On August 30, 2024, Rexhepi was detained by the Counter-Terrorism and Operations Branch of the Istanbul Police Department. During his interrogation, Rexhepi reportedly admitted to transferring funds, which further implicated him in the Mossad's operations. He was subsequently charged by the court and sent to prison.
Implications of the Operation
MIT's investigation has uncovered a broader pattern of financial transfers from Mossad to its field operatives in Turkey, with funds reportedly originating from Eastern European countries, particularly Kosovo. The investigation revealed that the money transferred by Rexhepi was used by field agents in Turkey to support activities in Syria, including payments to underground sources.
Moreover, it was discovered that these agents utilized cryptocurrencies to make payments to their contacts in Syria, highlighting the sophisticated methods employed by Mossad to maintain its operations in the region.
The arrest of Liridon Rexhepi and the subsequent revelations underscore the complex and secretive nature of international intelligence operations in Turkey. MIT's successful operation not only thwarted a potential security threat but also shed light on the financial networks that sustain covert activities across borders.
This case continues to develop, and further investigations may reveal more about the extent of Mossad's activities in Turkey and the region.