According to media reports, Interpol-listed crypto entrepreneur Richard Heart was detained in Istanbul together with his wife during a police operation.

Arrest and seizures

Local authorities reportedly discovered $600 000 in cash, 24 watches and 7 firearms during the search of the property.

Allegations and legal background

Finnish investigators suspect Heart of tax fraud and of assaulting a 16-year-old girl, according to the same media accounts reporting the detention.

Separately, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission previously filed charges against Heart, but a U.S. court dismissed that suit for lack of jurisdiction.

Authorities in Istanbul carried out the detention while noting international interest in the case, and procedural steps regarding extradition or further investigation may follow.