A Turkish man who was believed to be the leader of the “Noor-1” heroin cartel, which was busted about a year ago, has died under mysterious circumstances in Korydallos prison, a few days before the conclusion of the investigation.

The man, who suffered from mobility problems from birth, had been arrested during the first phase of investigations in Athens and is believed to have had a leading role in the transportation of heroin from the Persian Gulf and money laundering in Greece. He also appears to have been in contact with other Turkish nationals residing in Belgium.

According to reports the Turkish man had recently been transferred from the fifth wing in Korydallos to the prison infirmary, citing a serious health problem. Sources suggest that he may not have actually suffered from any serious medical problem and intended to get in contact with another Turkish prisoner in the infirmary. Authorities are currently trying to discover what the purpose of their meeting was.

Two tons of heroin were found to have been transferred via the “Noor-1, which traveled from Dubai and to Elefsina. About 40 people are facing serious charges, with a number of suspects claiming that they have been threatened and the victims of extortion.