# Turkish organized crime youth exploitation investigation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-organized-crime-youth-exploitation-investigation > Updated: 2026-09-03T10:43:29.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. The Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has launched investigations into organized crime groups, specifically the ‘Casperlar’ and ‘Çirkinler’ gangs, for exploiting youths through social media. Prosecutors allege these groups use platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and online gaming chat rooms to recruit vulnerable individuals aged 15 to 25 by projecting false images of wealth and power. According to the initial indictment, the Casperlar group, allegedly led by İsmail Atız (code name ‘Hamuş’), uses psychological manipulation to recruit members who are then used as hitmen for violent crimes. Following these findings, a subsequent indictment was prepared against 51 children involved in the ‘Casperlar’ organization. This investigation covers 22 separate incidents across various Istanbul districts and includes 17 different charges, such as membership in a criminal organization, attempted murder, and illegal possession of firearms. Of the children charged, 30 are currently in custody. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-03: Istanbul prosecutors charge 51 children in ‘Casperlar’ crime group investigation Turkish prosecutors have filed an indictment against 51 children linked to the ‘Casperlar’ crime group, charging them with 17 offenses including attempted murder and organized crime membership. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-prosecutors-charge-51-children-in-casperlar-crime-group-investigation ### 2026-08-08: Casperlar and Çirkinler crime groups indicted for exploiting youths via social media Turkish prosecutors have indicted members of the 'Casperlar' and 'Çirkinler' gangs for exploiting youths via social media and online games to commit violent crimes. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/casperlar-crime-group-investigation-leads-to-indictment-of-151-suspects --- Cite as: Turkish organized crime youth exploitation investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-organized-crime-youth-exploitation-investigation