Istanbul Police Seize 29 'Changed' Cars in Fraud Operation

An organized crime investigation bureau in Istanbul has launched an operation targeting a sophisticated fraud scheme involving the illicit modification of vehicles. The operation aims to recover stolen and 'changed' cars and apprehend those involved.

Investigators discovered that suspects were obtaining factory serial numbers from vehicles declared total losses due to accidents, fires, earthquakes, or other natural disasters. These serial numbers were then applied to salvaged or impounded vehicles acquired through various means. This process, known as 'changing' in Turkish automotive circles, effectively disguised the true origin and condition of the vehicles.

The fraudulent 'changed' vehicles were subsequently sold to unsuspecting buyers, defrauding consumers. Authorities have identified a total of 29 vehicles that were altered using this method. The operation has extended beyond Istanbul, with police conducting raids in Bağcılar, Bayrampaşa, Gaziosmanpaşa, Kağıthane, and Sultangazi districts, as well as in the provinces of Adıyaman, Balıkesir, Isparta, and Şanlıurfa.

During the coordinated raids, law enforcement seized the 29 altered vehicles. The investigation identified 13 suspects believed to be central to the operation. This crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts to combat vehicle fraud and protect consumers from deceptive practices in the automotive market.