Turkey is intensifying its efforts against illegal gambling and cybercrime. In a grand-scale operation, the Turkish police carried out sweeping actions against illegal betting and gambling activities in 16 provinces, resulting in the arrest of 27 individuals, many of whom are prominent social media influencers. With a large-scale operation led by the Ministry of Interior, the nation has made a bold statement about its commitment to safeguarding social and economic stability.
Operation CYBERAG-13 crackdown
The operation, codenamed ‘CYBERAG-13,’ was the result of a four-month investigation specifically targeting social media users with substantial followings. These individuals were allegedly promoting illegal betting platforms and encouraging gambling activities through their online presence. Turkey has conducted coordinated operations in 16 provinces, including Istanbul, Izmir, Gaziantep, Adana, and Mersin. This has been a combined effort of the Cyber Crimes Combat Department and the Gendarmerie General Command.
Authorities in the raids arrested 27 suspects, including some well-known social media influencers. This isn’t the first time influencers have come under fire from the authorities. In November 17 people were arrested for similar offences. Other names that have grabbed the headlines include Sefa Caner Saricam and Muzaffer Zorbey Erkoclar, some of whom are now living abroad, complicating the legal proceedings.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya took to social media to announce the crackdown, emphasising the threat illegal gambling poses to society. He described it as a crime that endangers individuals and communities alike. The minister’s proactive stance underscores the government’s determination to address crimes that threaten public welfare.
Yerlikaya said, “Illegal betting is a crime that threatens the future of not only individuals but also society. Our virtual patrols are on duty 24/7 in the fight against such activities.”
Illegal gambling in Turkey
Despite strict anti-gambling laws, illegal betting has continued to flourish in Turkey, fuelled by advancements in technology and the influence of social media. Digital platforms offer a veil of anonymity, making it easier for illegal operators to act without being detected. Influencers with large followings are known to do this quite openly on social media, thus luring people into gambling. This jeopardises not only public welfare but also the very economic backbone of the nation.
Turkey has stringent laws governing gambling, but enforcement remains a challenge. Beyond the legal ramifications, influencers promoting illegal betting face ethical dilemmas, as their actions harm their audience and society at large.
Turkey’s approach could serve as a model for other nations grappling with cybercrime and illegal gambling. The intersection of technology, social media, and crime is a global issue, and Turkey’s actions highlight the importance of proactive governance.
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