Turkey arrests 34 in $3.5bn illegal betting crackdown
Turkish authorities have remanded 34 suspects in custody following a major illegal betting investigation involving approximately TRY3.48 billion in financial transactions.
The investigation, coordinated by the Aydın Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, resulted in simultaneous operations across 14 provinces on November 3, with 37 suspects detained.
According to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency, 34 suspects were remanded in custody following court appearances on November 6, while three others were released under judicial supervision.
The investigation identified 40 suspects allegedly involved in illegal online betting activities, with three remaining at large.
Turkey’s Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) identified approximately TRY3.484 billion in transactions through bank accounts linked to the suspects.
Authorities also imposed restrictions on 467 bank accounts, four cryptocurrency accounts and four vehicles as part of the investigation.
The operation was conducted by the Aydın Provincial Gendarmerie’s cybercrime division, targeting individuals suspected of facilitating illegal betting and associated financial transactions.
Turkey maintains strict gambling restrictions, with sports betting permitted through authorised operators while privately operated online gambling websites remain prohibited.
The investigation is among the latest efforts by Turkish authorities to disrupt illegal betting networks and the financial infrastructure supporting their operations.
The suspects remain subject to ongoing legal proceedings, with no convictions reported.
