Illegal Betting Operation: 3.6 Billion Lira Money Traffic

Allegations have emerged that illegal betting and online gambling revenues are being laundered through digital currency platforms in Istanbul. Within the scope of the investigation conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, a total of 3.6 billion lira in monetary movement has been detected. This operation resulted in the issuance of detention warrants for 24 individuals, of which 15 individuals have been captured.

According to a report published on Ekonomim, important digital payment and cryptocurrency platforms such as Paribu, Papara, Binance TR (BN Technology Inc.), and Nesine (D Electronic Chance Games and Publishing Inc.) are also included in the investigation. Statements made reveal the magnitude of the operation coordinated by the Cyber Crime Combat Branch of the Istanbul Provincial Gendarmerie Command. It has been reported that a total of 1.2 billion lira was transferred for illegal betting purposes through the website www.paribahis849.com within the year 2023.

Within the scope of the operation, it was stated that the total transaction volume of two separate groups exceeded 3.6 billion lira. The first group consists of 14 individuals, with a total transaction volume of 2.5 billion lira. The second group comprises 9 individuals with a transaction volume of 785 million lira. Additionally, one individual stood out with a transaction volume of 394 million lira.

Findings related to the laundering of illegal betting and gambling revenues through digital platforms were obtained through a detailed analysis of MASAK reports and HTS records. In the statement made by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, it was emphasized that this situation poses an "economic and sociological threat." Furthermore, it was expressed that these operations are significant not only in preventing current losses but also in averting future tax losses.

In light of these developments, it is crucial for investors to consider how illegal activities might affect the cryptocurrency market and potential regulatory measures. It is of great importance that cryptocurrency platforms adhere to the expected standards of transparency and accountability to avoid being involved in such legal conspiracies.