Operation targets illegal betting network worth 2.8 billion lira; 16 arrested

Authorities in Malatya, Turkey, have successfully dismantled a large-scale illegal online betting network, seizing digital materials and arresting multiple suspects. The operation, conducted under the coordination of the Malatya Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, focused on individuals involved in facilitating financial transactions for illegal gambling activities.

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In Malatya, under the coordination of the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, teams from the Provincial Police Department's Cyber Crimes Branch Directorate conducted a study on the crime of 'facilitating money transfer' within the scope of Article 5/c of Law No. 7258 on Betting and Chance Games in Football and Other Sports Competitions.

During the investigation, law enforcement meticulously examined the financial activities of 22 accounts suspected of engaging in illegal betting. These accounts revealed a staggering transaction volume, estimated at approximately 2 billion 871 million Turkish Lira (around $87 million USD based on current exchange rates). This substantial sum underscores the significant scale of the illicit operation.

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Within the scope of the investigation, the movements of 22 accounts belonging to individuals evaluated as engaging in illegal betting activities were examined.

Based on the evidence gathered, a coordinated operation was launched targeting 24 suspects. The raids resulted in the apprehension of 20 individuals. A search of their premises and persons yielded 61 pieces of digital material, likely containing crucial evidence related to the betting network's operations. Subsequently, 16 of the suspects brought before the court were ordered to be detained, while two were released under judicial control measures.

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In the examinations, it was determined that there was a transaction volume of approximately 2 billion 871 million TL in the accounts.

Further proceedings saw two other suspects released following questioning by the prosecutor's office. It was also determined that two individuals involved in the case were already incarcerated for other offenses. Efforts are reportedly ongoing to apprehend the remaining two fugitives connected to the network.

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Based on the evidence obtained, a simultaneous operation was organized targeting 24 suspects.