Security officials in Turkey have arrested Mustafa Çabuk, a man who claimed to be a prophet and led a religious group in Çanakkale, reportedly drawing around 200 followers. Alongside Çabuk, 15 of his followers were also taken into custody.
The Turkish government has accused Çabuk and his close associates of exploiting religious beliefs for financial gain. They are expected to face financial fraud charges once the ongoing investigation concludes and they are presented in court.
Çabuk’s controversial claims began in 2023 when he started renting hotels and homes, purportedly to provide shelter for earthquake victims across Turkey. He later took to social media to share his beliefs, asserting that he had received divine signs.
Reports indicate that Çabuk encouraged his followers to sell their assets and take out loans, promising substantial returns. This led to significant online controversy, with many observers arguing that his followers were misled. Some critics contend that those who willingly gave him money should also accept responsibility for their choices.
In addition to confiscating funds from Çabuk and his followers, authorities recovered weapons during the arrest, which occurred on October 8. Çabuk now faces charges of financial fraud and forming a criminal group.
Further reports reveal that Çabuk claimed to have received a vision in a dream about the location of the “Ark of the Covenant.” He reportedly used these fabricated claims to bolster his following and secure significant financial profits from his adherents.