Turkey Won FETO’s Biggest Lawsuit

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 LEXIST 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 Impact Does the $7 Billion Lawsuit Loss Have on FETÖ?

The loss of the $7 billion lawsuit significantly impacts FETÖ's financial and operational stability. This ruling not only strips a substantial amount of claimed damages from Akın İpek and his associated entities but also tarnishes the reputation of FETÖ on an international scale. By losing this landmark case, FETÖ's ability to fund and support its activities may be considerably hindered. Additionally, this victory for Turkey serves as a precedent in future legal battles against FETÖ, potentially insulating Turkey from further financial claims by the group.

How Did Turkey Secure a Victory in the International Court?

Turkey's victory in the international court was secured through meticulous legal strategy and compelling evidence of FETÖ links to the seized assets. Mustafa Doğan İnal, representing Turkey, presented substantial documentation and arguments that demonstrated the justified actions taken by the state. By effectively showing the connection between Akın İpek's assets and FETÖ, the legal team convinced the arbitration court that Turkey’s seizure of these assets was lawful. This methodical approach along with collaborative legal efforts, was crucial in persuading the court to rule in favor of Turkey against the $7 billion claim.

What Role Did Mustafa Doğan İnal Play in the Case?

Mustafa Doğan İnal was pivotal as the lead attorney representing Turkey in this high-profile lawsuit against Akın İpek. With his vast experience in corporate and commercial law, Doğan İnal conducted a thorough investigation and presented compelling evidence linking Akın İpek’s assets to FETÖ. His strategic prowess, combined with his deep understanding of international arbitration processes, enabled him to expertly navigate the complexities of the case. By leveraging his expertise from previous high-stakes legal battles, he ensured that Turkey's stance was legally solid, ultimately leading to the country's victory in this landmark case.

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).