Turkish authorities arrest 27 in crackdown on illegal online gambling

Authorities seized a substantial amount of digital evidence, focusing on social media influencers who allegedly advertised or encouraged participation in illegal betting.

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Key points:

- Major nationwide operation results in 27 arrests, targeting social media influencers promoting illegal gambling

- Operation covered 16 provinces and followed a four-month investigation by cybercrime authorities

Turkish law enforcement has conducted a significant operation against illegal betting and virtual gambling operations across 16 provinces, resulting in the arrest of 27 individuals, including several high-profile social media influencers.

The operation, codenamed 'CYBERAG-13,' represents a coordinated effort between the Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices and the General Directorate of Security's Cybercrime Department.

The four-month investigation specifically targeted social media users with substantial followings who were allegedly promoting illegal betting platforms and encouraging gambling activities through their online presence.

Good to know: The operation spanned major cities including Istanbul, Izmir and Gaziantep – as well as numerous other provinces across Turkey

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya emphasised the serious nature of illegal betting, describing it as a criminal offence that poses a threat not only to individuals but to society as a whole.

The minister also highlighted the continuous nature of their enforcement efforts, noting that virtual patrols operate around the clock in what he termed the "Cyber Homeland."

This crackdown follows recent actions by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF), which has implemented strict penalties for clubs found promoting illegal betting, including fines of up to TRY 10m ($283,00) and potential point deductions. These measures reflect Turkey's broader campaign against unauthorised gambling.

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