Leading figure of FETÖ in the business world, fugitive Akın İpek, has lost a $7 billion lawsuit filed against him in Turkey. Mustafa Doğan İnal, the attorney representing the Republic of Turkey, announced that Turkey had won its largest case against FETÖ in an international court. Akın İpek’s UK-based Ipek Investment Ltd. demanded $7 billion in damages, but the court ruled in favor of Turkey.

The Case Process and Outcomes

FETÖ associate Akın İpek filed a lawsuit in a Washington-based arbitration court in 2018 regarding the seizure of Ipek Koza properties. After a 4-year-long trial, the court ruled in favor of Turkey. This lawsuit, which involved the seizure-related compensation case against the state, was recognized as the largest case initiated by FETÖ in an international court. Mustafa Doğan İnal, Turkey's lawyer, announced on Twitter, “We won the case Akın İpek's Ipek Investment filed against Turkey in ICSID! As the lawyer representing the Republic of Turkey from LEXIT Law Office, we are thrilled and congratulate everyone involved.”

FAQs About the Lawsuit

Who is Akın İpek and Why is He a Fugitive?

Akın İpek is a significant business figure within FETÖ. Since 2015, he has been living as a fugitive in the UK following the seizure of his assets in Turkey’s Ipek Koza company. He fled Turkey amid accusations related to his ties with FETÖ. Despite his legal troubles in Turkey, he continues his commercial activities from the UK.

What Was the Lawsuit About and How Did the Court Process Go?

The lawsuit revolved around Akın İpek's Ipek Investment Ltd. seeking $7 billion in compensation due to the alleged damages from the seizure of Ipek Koza assets. The case began in 2018 in a Washington-based arbitration court and concluded in 4 years, favoring Turkey. Throughout the process, both parties presented various evidence and documents to support their claims. The court took into consideration the FETÖ links of the seized assets and concluded that Turkey was justified in its actions.

Most Frequently Asked

What is the significance of the $7 billion lawsuit involving FETÖ?

The $7 billion lawsuit involving FETÖ is highly significant because it represents the largest international case filed by the organization against the Republic of Turkey. The lawsuit was initiated by Akın İpek, a prominent FETÖ associate, who sought compensation for the seizure of Ipek Koza assets. The case, which began in 2018 and lasted 4 years, concluded with a ruling in favor of Turkey. The result is seen as a major legal victory for Turkey, reinforcing its actions against FETÖ and its financial network.

How did the court justify its decision in favor of Turkey?

The court justified its decision in favor of Turkey by considering the evidence and documents presented by both parties. The primary factor was the connection between the seized assets and FETÖ. The court determined that Turkey's actions were justified based on the links between the assets and the organization. This included examining the financial activities of Akın İpek and the strategic importance of the confiscated properties. The court's ruling underscored the legitimacy of Turkey's measures to combat FETÖ's influence and safeguard national security.

Who is Mustafa Doğan İnal?

Born in 1978 in Gaziantep, Mustafa Doğan İnal graduated from Istanbul University's Faculty of Law in 2001. Throughout his university years, he volunteered with civil society organizations and founded his law office in 2004. In 2006, he continued his career as a legal advisor and lawyer for Albayrak Holding and Yeni Şafak Newspaper. He is also a board member of the Lawyers Association and serves on its advisory committee.

Since 2016, he has been continuing his professional life at Lexist Consulting Services, which he founded. Mustafa Doğan İnal specializes in resolving disputes related to corporate law, shareholder disagreements, and issues within the real estate & construction sectors. Additionally, he has extensive experience in commercial and criminal disputes and represents clients as an arbitration lawyer at ICC and ICSID.

His Achievements and Awards

2020: Second Place Award for Bonds, Loans, and Sukuk Yearly Natural Resource Financing Agreement.

2019: Winner of CEE Legal Matters' Deal of the Year Award for the National Lottery License service procurement agreement.

2017: Winner of the "EMEA Finance Best Syndicated Loan" award for the $2.7 billion loan for the Northern Marmara Motorway Project (Project value: $8 billion).