Forex fraud operation: 195 suspects in custody

In a forex fraud investigation coordinated by the Antalya Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, detention warrants were issued for 195 suspects in 30 provinces across Turkey. As a result of approximately 9 months of work, it was determined that the criminal organization, led by A.K., had established 206 shell companies in various cities.

The organization members contacted individuals wishing to invest through a "FOREX" application, creating the impression that a company operating in London was providing legal investment consultancy in Turkey. Through this method, it was determined that they persuaded citizens to invest through their own companies and directed them to send their money to the accounts of the shell companies. It was understood that the organization defrauded a total of 66 people out of 48 million 198 thousand 208 liras.

According to the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) report, the volume of money traffic managed by the criminal organization was determined to be 18 billion 440 million 666 thousand 481 liras. Additionally, it was determined that 8 thousand 340 people might also have been defrauded. In the operation, assets belonging to the suspects with a financial value of approximately 2.5 billion liras were seized. Simultaneous operations were carried out in Antalya, Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, and other provinces.

Information was also provided that the investigation is ongoing and that more detentions may be made. Authorities invited citizens to be careful against fraud and to make conscious investments.

News Source: AA