Turkey Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Gambling
Turkey has embarked on a major operation to combat illegal gambling and cybercrime. Led by the Ministry of Interior, the effort uncovered a sprawling network involved in activities such as financial fraud, unauthorized access to systems, and illegal betting.
Nationwide Raid Targets Illegal Gambling and Cybercrime
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the nationwide crackdown on social media, emphasizing the government’s determination to address activities threatening the nation’s social and economic stability. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Cyber Crimes Combat Department and the Gendarmerie General Command, spanned 16 provinces, including Istanbul, Izmir, and Gaziantep.
“Illegal betting is a crime that threatens the future of not only individuals but also society. Our virtual patrols are on duty 24/7 in the fight against such activities,” stated Yerlikaya.
The large-scale effort led to the detention of 27 suspects, including social media influencers accused of promoting illegal gambling platforms. Investigators confiscated extensive digital evidence tied to these activities, highlighting the technological sophistication of these networks.
Social Media Influencers Under Investigation
The operation reflects a heightened focus on the role of influencers in promoting illegal gambling. Many of the detained suspects leveraged their online followings to encourage illegal betting, exacerbating the impact of these activities on public welfare.
In recent months, Turkey has intensified its scrutiny of gambling-related promotions by influencers. In a similar operation in November, authorities detained 17 individuals, some of whom remain outside the country, complicating legal proceedings.
