Türkiye launches major crackdown on illegal gambling, dozens detained

Turkish authorities detained 39 people suspected of facilitating illegal gambling and betting operations in a nationwide operation spanning 19 provinces, TRT Haber reports.

According to an investigation by the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK), suspicious transactions totalling 2.41 billion Turkish liras (around $68 million) passed through the bank accounts of 47 suspects between January 1, 2024, and May 20, 2026.

Searches and arrests were carried out in several provinces, including Çankırı, Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir and Antalya. All 39 detainees were brought before a court, while arrest warrants were issued for eight other suspects, two of whom are abroad.

By Jeyhun Aghazada