Turkish court releases influencer Dilan Polat from prison until trial in money laundering case begins

Wall English

An Istanbul court released internet sensation Dilan Polat from custody on August 19 pending trial in a money laundering case.

She and her husband were arrested in November 2023 on charges of money laundering, illegal betting and criminal organization.

Dilan Polat was a social media influencer and the owner of a beauty salon chain with branches in 46 provinces in Turkey and abroad. Her husband Engin Polat was her business partner. The Polats also sold beauty products through their e-commerce business.

According to journalist Emrullah Erdinç, the prosecutor requested her release until the trial begins, citing a recent report by the Financial Crimes Investigation Authority (MASAK), which found that Polat was not accused of any crime given the time she spent in the situation and the evidence available.

The prosecutor also referred to the forensic medicine's opinion that she should be placed under protection and treated in a high-security facility.

While Polat was released pending her trial, the 8th High Criminal Court of Anatolia imposed an international travel ban on her, state news agency AA reported.

The couple had become famous on social media for their extravagant lifestyle. Posts showing private jets, anniversary celebrations on the LED screens in Times Square or using $100 bills as hair curlers caught the public's attention and raised doubts about the source of this wealth.

For example, she once drank Turkish coffee with gold dust during a television show.

The investigation focuses primarily on the Polat family and their extended family.