US tip-off triggers major operation in Turkey: Investigation launched into 219 people

A large-scale operation was conducted following allegations regarding the sharing and sale of digital content involving child abuse, which began with an international tip-off.

According to a report by Habertürk TV, the investigation was initiated based on a report forwarded to Turkish authorities by the American National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

INVESTIGATION BEGAN WITH A TIP-OFF FROM THE US

The report prepared by the American National Center for Missing & Exploited Children contained information indicating that obscene images involving children were being shared online.

Following the tip-off, an investigation was launched by Turkish judicial authorities. During the work carried out by the prosecutor's office, it was determined that the person who allegedly uploaded the images to the internet was 32-year-old Savaş K.

SUSPECT REPORTEDLY WORKED AS A SCHOOL BUS DRIVER

According to information in the investigation file, it was learned that the suspect had worked as a school bus driver for many years and had been employed at institutions where children received education.

It was noted that examinations conducted on the files revealed a large number of images on the suspect's digital devices.

THOUSANDS OF FILES DETECTED ON HIS PHONE

During the digital examinations conducted as part of the investigation, it was alleged that child abuse content consisting of 215 photos and 1,091 videos was found on the suspect's phone.

It was stated that the obtained materials have been added to the investigation file as evidence.

ALLEGATIONS OF SALES VIA TELEGRAM

Examinations revealed that the suspect allegedly created closed groups via the Telegram application and included users in these groups in exchange for money.

It was reported that the investigation file includes findings that the images in question were sold for a fee.

INVESTIGATION INTO 219 PEOPLE ACROSS 58 PROVINCES AND GERMANY

The scope of the investigation was expanded following an examination of the suspect's bank account transactions.

As a result of financial investigations, it was alleged that a total of 219 people from 58 different provinces in Turkey and from Germany had purchased the images in question.

It was learned that these individuals have also been included in the scope of the investigation and that inquiries have been launched against them.

ARRESTED, DEFENSE ENTERED INTO THE FILE

The suspect, who was taken into custody, was arrested by the court he was brought before.

It was stated that in his defense included in the file, Savaş K. used the phrases, "It was a momentary thing, I gave in to the devil."

It was reported that the suspect stated he worked at an educational foundation and did not carry out any other commercial activities.

UP TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON SOUGHT

In the file prepared as part of the investigation, it was stated that the suspect will be tried on charges of selling obscene publications involving children.

It was reported that the prosecutor's office is requesting a prison sentence of up to 10 years for Savaş K.

News Source: 12punto