319 detained in Türkiye’s nationwide crackdown on illegal betting
Türkiye conducted a major operation, “SIBERAG-12” targeting illegal betting networks across 54 provinces.
The operation, coordinated by the Turkish Interior Ministry and law enforcement agencies, resulted in the detention of 319 suspects involved in illegal betting activities.
Coordinated efforts against illegal betting across Türkiye
Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya announced the operation on social media, emphasizing the government’s commitment to combating illegal betting, which he described as “a trap disrupting societal peace.”
Illegal betting is a trap that disturbs our peace. Our fight against illegal betting, which harms both the lives of individuals and the social structure and causes economic, moral and social problems, continues unabated
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya
The operation was conducted under the coordination of the Public Prosecutor’s Offices, the General Directorate of Combating Cybercrime and cybercrime units of provincial police departments.
Provinces involved in the operation included Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Bursa, and Diyarbakir, among others.
Focus on cryptocurrency transactions
Authorities reported that the suspects were facilitating illegal betting operations using international online gambling platforms and transferring funds through cryptocurrency services. Investigations revealed that:
- Suspects purchased infrastructure for illegal betting sites using crypto assets.
- Transactions were conducted through local cryptocurrency providers.
- Digital assets and platforms were used to conceal the financial activities.
