Famous Turkish actress Hande Erçel, who rose to fame thanks to her role in the TV series “Knock on My Door,” was detained at Istanbul airport immediately after returning to Turkey. The 32-year-old star had been abroad for the past month; by that time, the prosecutor’s office had already issued an arrest warrant.

Upon arrival in the country, police took Erçel into custody right at the airport. At the station, the actress gave a statement, and hair and blood samples were taken for examination. Hande had previously stated on social media that she loves her country and is ready to fully cooperate with the investigation.

The case in which Erçel is involved has affected several Turkish film stars at once. Also under investigation are: the actress’s ex-boyfriend, billionaire Hakan Sabancı, Birce Akalay, known for the series “Black and White Love”, Dogukan Günger from “Cranberry Sherbet”, and Ismail Hacıoğlu, star of the series “Children of Paradise”.

During his testimony, 35-year-old Hakan Sabancı resolutely stood up for his ex-lover. According to him, neither he nor Hande have ever used potent substances.

I have never even been where they are present. I know Hande Erçel. This man has never used illegal drugs in my presence, the billionaire was quoted as saying by Sozcu.

The anti-drug operation, which affected Turkish celebrities, has been ongoing since last fall. Against the backdrop of high-profile cases, some actors lost their roles or were suspended from filming.

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