Investigation Launched into Large-Scale Illegal Betting

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has organized an illegal betting operation, leading to detention orders for 24 suspects. The investigation, part of a broader effort against illegal betting and virtual gambling, determined that a total of 3.665 billion lira was transferred by these individuals.

Authorities reported that 15 of the 24 suspects have been apprehended, while 9 remain at large.

Financial Transactions and Laundering Allegations

According to the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, approximately 1.2 billion lira was channeled to accounts associated with the Paribahis849 website for illegal betting purposes throughout 2023. These transfers were conducted through 807 separate transactions, with the overall transaction volume reaching an estimated $3.665 billion.

The investigation revealed that these money transfers were facilitated through platforms including Paribu Technology Inc., Papara Electronic Money Inc., Binance TR (BN Technology Inc.), and Nesine (D Electronic Chance Games and Publishing Inc.). The Chief Public Prosecutor's Office's statement indicated that illegal betting revenues were laundered through these digital platforms.

Prosecutor's Office Vows Continued Fight Against Illegal Betting

In its statement, the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office emphasized the significance of the detected money transfers, highlighting the economic and sociological impact of illegal betting games and the resulting tax losses. The office noted that many of the suspects are young individuals in their twenties.

The statement concluded by asserting, "Considering the magnitude of the money transfers detected as a result of this operation within the scope of illegal betting games and the tax loss it caused, as well as the fact that the suspects involved are young people in their twenties, the fight against this economic and sociological problem facing our state will continue without interruption."