Fraudsters stole over $3.6 million in pet adoption scam in Türkiye
Authorities arrested 43 suspects in Kocaeli and six other provinces for running a fake pet adoption scam, allegedly taking shipping and insurance fees from victims, Kocaeli, Türkiye, Jan. 27, 2025. (IHA Photo)
Authorities in Türkiye uncovered a large-scale fraud scheme involving fake pet adoption listings.
The operation spanned seven provinces and led police to arrest 43 suspects who scammed victims out of more than ₺110 million ($3.6 million). Courts later ordered 33 of them to be jailed.
How criminals used fake pet adoption listings to steal millions
Criminals created fake pet adoption accounts on social media and tricked victims into making payments. They told people to pay for shipping fees or travel insurance. Once the money was transferred, the scammers disappeared, leaving victims without pets.
Investigators found over 110 million Turkish lira in suspicious bank transactions linked to the scheme. Many victims unknowingly paid money, believing they were covering legitimate costs.
Police raid 7 provinces to capture 43 suspects in pet fraud scheme
On Jan.24, police launched raids in seven provinces to take down the criminal group. The Cyber Crimes Division of the Kocaeli Provincial Police Department led the operation.
Officers detained 43 of the 44 identified suspects. During searches of their homes and businesses, police found evidence connected to the fraud.
Police brought the suspects before judicial authorities on January 27. Courts ordered 33 of them jailed, while seven were released under judicial supervision. Prosecutors released three others after questioning them.
Authorities are still investigating and looking for any remaining members of the scheme. Victims continue filing complaints against those involved in the fraud.
