started · updated
Turkey dismantles international forex and crypto fraud network
Turkish authorities, coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office and supported by the National Intelligence Organization (MIT), Interpol, and Europol, have dismantled an international forex and cryptocurrency fraud network. The operation targeted more than 40 fraud offices operated by 25 to 31 different companies, including call centers, consultancy, and tourism firms used as fronts.
Investigations revealed that the organization was predominantly managed by Israeli individuals. The network utilized social media and internet advertisements to promise high returns on investments to foreign citizens. Once victims were engaged, the suspects used fake investment platforms to display fraudulent gains, encouraging further deposits. When victims attempted to withdraw funds, they were met with excuses regarding account blocks or taxes.
Authorities have detained 174 suspects and seized approximately 1.5 billion TL in assets, including 80 vehicles and 12 properties. The organization's financial activities were estimated to have reached significant volumes, with some reports suggesting the network amassed billions in illicit gains over several years. Legal proceedings are ongoing for charges including fraud, money laundering, and establishing a criminal organization.
Entities
Adana · Akın Gürlek · Antalya · Aras Bulut İynemli · Bakırköy Cumhuriyet Başsavcılığı · Interpol · Israel · Istanbul · Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office · Iğdır Police Department · Konya Cumhuriyet Başsavcılığı · Milli İstihbarat Teşkilatı
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The criminal organization consisted of 14 suspects. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Iğdır Police Department conducted an operation against a criminal organization. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Simultaneous operations were carried out on September 14, 2026, in Iğdır, Istanbul, Ağrı, Antalya, İzmir, Adana, and Elazığ. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The group used threats and pressure against business owners via phone or in person. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] 12 suspects were detained during the operation. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Police seized two unlicensed pistols, two unlicensed shotguns, 157 cartridges, and various digital materials. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Six suspects were arrested following their referral to judicial authorities on September 16, 2026. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The organization members threatened and pressured victims at their workplaces or via telephone under the leader's instructions. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Six suspects were arrested on September 16, 2026, and six others were placed under judicial control. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Police seized two unlicensed pistols, two unlicensed shotguns, 157 cartridges, two radios, a knuckle duster, and digital materials. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Twelve suspects were detained during the operation, while two remain at large. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The operation targeted a criminal organization consisting of 14 suspects. www.elazigsonhaber.com · www.guneydoguekspres.com · www.yenisafak.com