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Illegal Betting Network Linked to Halil Falyalı Detailed in Indictment

Illegal Betting Network Linked to Halil Falyalı Detailed in Indictment

Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has outlined the structure of an illegal betting organization allegedly founded by Halil Falyalı, who was killed in 2022, in an indictment involving 250 suspects, including 35 identified as organization leaders.

Publish Date: 06/12/24 14:37
reading time: 3 min.
Illegal Betting Network Linked to Halil Falyalı Detailed in Indictment
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According to Anadolu Agency (AA), the indictment, prepared by the Bureau for Smuggling and Organized Crime Investigations, revealed that the illegal betting activities were conducted through online platforms utilizing advanced technical infrastructure and financial systems to obscure the origins of their earnings.

The organization allegedly purchased software enabling live betting, which was then installed on websites to commence illegal operations. A structured team was established to manage technical systems, customer support, and the creation of new sites in case of shutdowns.

The group included roles such as technical operators, marketers, financial coordinators, cash couriers, and field agents. Leaders of the organization reportedly maintained minimal contact with lower levels to avoid detection and left no financial traces.

Recruitment Tactics

The indictment stated that field agents targeted students, housewives, retirees, and minimum-wage workers, promising monthly income to gain access to their bank accounts. New accounts were created in these individuals' names, with internet banking access controlled by the organization.

These accounts were used to collect and circulate illicit funds before cash withdrawals were conducted via ATMs. Funds were subsequently converted into cryptocurrency to further obscure their trail.

Avoiding Detection

The organization reportedly instructed users to avoid terms like "bet" or "gambling" in financial transactions. By dispersing funds across numerous accounts, the group minimized detection risks and banking fees.

Falyalı’s Connection

Halil Falyalı was fatally shot on February 8, 2022, in the Çatalköy area of Kyrenia while in his vehicle. His driver, Murat Demirtaş, was killed at the scene. Seven suspects were later convicted in Istanbul for premeditated murder and assisting in the killings, receiving life and varying prison sentences.

Separately, the indictment involving Falyalı, his wife, and a casino manager, among others, was accepted by Ankara's 20th Criminal Court of First Instance, marking another chapter in the investigation into his alleged criminal network.

 

Source: AA 

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