Major blow to criminal organization in five provinces
In simultaneous operations conducted across different provinces, 32 people were detained as part of an investigation into an armed criminal organization known as the 'Şapkalılar' (The Hat-Wearers). Among those captured are 3 lawyers.
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In a large-scale investigation into organized crime, various crimes committed across Turkey by the armed criminal organization known as the 'Şapkalılar' were brought under scrutiny. In efforts coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, it was determined that the organization's members were responsible for crimes including establishing a criminal organization, extortion, intentional homicide, attempted murder, property damage, and endangering general safety.
Between 2015 and 2026, major blows were dealt to the criminal organization in a total of 19 operations covering Istanbul, as well as Tekirdağ, Sakarya, Kocaeli, Sivas, Adana, Ordu, and Mardin. During this process, 296 people were identified as suspects; 245 people were referred to judicial authorities. It was reported that 172 people have been arrested so far, and judicial control measures have been applied to 73 individuals. Additionally, red notices have been issued for 4 high-level organization leaders who are fugitives and have been determined to have fled abroad through illegal means.
ORGANIZATION'S INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONS REVEALED
During the deepening of the investigation, it was revealed that organization members regularly threatened victims via international phone lines. Numbers used from Belgium and Italy were identified behind these lines. Authorities tracked the IP traces obtained via WhatsApp to these countries. Subsequently, contact was established with Interpol units in Belgium and Italy, and judicial assistance processes were initiated. It was reported that the charges have been brought to the judiciary with a comprehensive indictment and the judicial process regarding the organization has officially begun.
SIMULTANEOUS OPERATIONS AT 53 ADDRESSES
As the investigation continued, a new wave of operations was prepared to dismantle the organization, seize criminal evidence, and apprehend suspects. With the planning of the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, raids were conducted on 53 different addresses in Istanbul, Muş, Diyarbakır, Erzurum, and Tekirdağ. It was noted that among the 32 people detained, there were 3 lawyers. Finally, it was stated that the operations are ongoing and the investigation is continuing meticulously.