TLDR Turkish authorities arrested 233 people across multiple provinces in coordinated raids targeting illegal sports gambling networks Investigators uncovered over TL 18 billion ($395 million) in illicit transactions linked to unlicensed betting operators A parallel operation in Mersin led to 50 arrests and seizure of luxury cars, apartments, and other assets The Adana investigation led to charges against bank executives, police officers, and lawyers for enabling money laundering Turkey’s financial crimes board froze TL 5.1 billion ($131 million) in accounts tied to illegal gambling operators Coordinated Raids Sweep Across Turkey
Turkish law enforcement has launched one of the country’s largest operations against illegal gambling. Authorities carried out coordinated raids across multiple provinces, executing more than 400 arrest warrants.
The operation resulted in 233 arrests. Investigators say they uncovered a financial network that moved over TL 18 billion, roughly $395 million, in unlawful proceeds.
Justice Minister Akın Gürlek confirmed the crackdown was driven by months of intelligence gathering. The raids were split into two main operations run from different cities.
The first was coordinated by the Antalya Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. A total of 139 specialized police teams carried out simultaneous dawn raids across 20 provinces.
That sweep targeted 183 suspects. Their accounts allegedly handled transaction volumes exceeding TL 11.3 billion, or about $248 million.
A second operation was led by the gendarmerie and the Mersin Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. This one focused on an organized group accused of laundering money for clients of foreign illegal betting websites.
Fifty people were arrested in the Mersin operation. Authorities also seized luxury cars, apartments, and other assets they say were funded entirely through criminal activity.
“No criminal group is above justice,” Minister Gürlek said. He added that the fight against criminal organizations would continue without compromise.
Adana Investigation Exposes Institutional