A large-scale cybercrime operation across Türkiye has resulted in hundreds of detentions as authorities stepped up efforts to combat online fraud, illegal betting and child exploitation.
The nationwide raids, carried out over the past 6 days, were coordinated across 29 provinces. According to the Interior Ministry, the operations led to the detention of 409 suspects, of whom 213 were formally arrested and 117 were released under judicial supervision. Legal proceedings against the remaining suspects are still underway.
The coordinated action involved provincial police departments, the Cyber Crime Department of the General Directorate of Security, the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) and public prosecutors.
The investigation focused on offences including aggravated fraud, illegal betting, online child sexual abuse material and child exploitation.
Authorities alleged that the suspects used social media platforms and phishing websites to deceive victims through fake investment schemes, fraudulent product sales, bogus prize campaigns, fake property deals, and false bungalow and vehicle rental advertisements.
Investigators also accused the suspects of illegally accessing mobile banking and online gaming accounts, operating illegal betting and gambling platforms, facilitating financial transactions linked to betting websites, and promoting unlawful gambling services.
The investigation further revealed that some suspects allegedly possessed child sexual abuse material and were involved in illegal point-of-sale (POS) loan sharking by misusing payment terminals to provide unauthorised cash loans.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling cybercrime, the Interior Ministry stated, “We continue our fight against cybercrime without compromise to ensure that no crime or criminal disturbing the peace of our citizens goes unpunished.” The ministry also thanked police officers, cybercrime investigators, MASAK personnel, public prosecutors and all officials who participated in the operations.
The latest crackdown highlights Türkiye’s continued efforts to strengthen enforcement against organised cybercrime networks and protect citizens from growing online threats.
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