The Büyükçekmece Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated an investigation based on tips received regarding terrorism and organized crime. The investigation revealed that a virtual betting gang was using mobile applications to communicate, organizing betting operations in offices rented throughout Istanbul using special software to deposit and withdraw money, transferring funds to cryptocurrency accounts. It was also found that the organization leader frequently traveled abroad and controlled around $300 million in banks, digital currencies, and the crypto market.
In response to these findings, a total of 89 individuals, including the organization leader Ferdi Akdağ, were targeted in an operation against the virtual betting gang. Simultaneous raids on homes and workplaces resulted in the seizure of $53,800, an unlicensed gun, 57 phones, 112 sim cards, 5 laptops, 2 hard disks, 3 flash drives, 1 ledger (cold wallet), and 4 memory cards. Following their statements, 31 suspects were released under judicial control, while a comprehensive search continues for the 16 fugitive suspects.
The operation against the organized crime group allegedly managing the financial transactions of several illegal betting sites of foreign origin involved a total of 89 suspects, with 42 of them being taken to court. Details of the operation were obtained by TRT Haber. The investigation revealed that the gang’s leader was controlling a vast amount of money, operating in kripto piyasasındaa, and frequently traveling abroad, raising concerns about their potential links to terrorism and organized crime.
The successful operation and subsequent arrests of 89 individuals linked to the virtual betting gang underscore the authorities’ commitment to combating organized crime and illegal activities in Istanbul. By targeting the financial networks and communication channels of criminal organizations, law enforcement agencies are able to disrupt their operations and prevent further crimes. The ongoing efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining fugitive suspects demonstrate the thoroughness of the investigation and the determination to bring all responsible parties to justice.
The seized items, including cash, weapons, electronic devices, and storage media, reveal the sophisticated nature of the virtual betting gang’s operations and highlight the importance of digital forensics in uncovering criminal activities. The use of cryptocurrency accounts and specialized software poses challenges for law enforcement in tracking and intercepting illegal financial transactions, necessitating continued cooperation with international partners and technological advancements. The involvement of multiple agencies and the coordination of efforts in the operation against the organized crime group demonstrate the effectiveness of a multi-faceted approach in combating complex criminal enterprises.
The release of some suspects under judicial control and the ongoing search for fugitive individuals illustrate the complexities of investigating and prosecuting organized crime activities. While progress has been made in dismantling the virtual betting gang and seizing their assets, further actions are necessary to ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable and to prevent similar criminal enterprises from emerging. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and other relevant parties will be crucial in addressing the challenges posed by transnational organized crime and protecting the public from illicit activities.
