Social media influencers in custody released under judicial control: Digital gaming operation

As part of an investigation initiated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, virtual patrol activities conducted by the Cyber Crimes Department determined that certain high-profile influencers, during their broadcasts on social media platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, were using a site called 'Key Drop' to open virtual loot boxes under the guise of digital gaming, thereby generating illicit income and encouraging gambling by converting items won in the game with other users into real money.

It was reported that 10 people were taken into custody during a simultaneous operation conducted today targeting 19 suspects located in Istanbul.

It was learned that out of the 19 individuals for whom detention warrants were issued, 5 are abroad, 2 are outside of Istanbul, 1 was expected to report to the courthouse, and 1 is currently a fugitive.

NAMES OF THOSE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY

The names of those taken into custody are as follows: Tolunay Ören, Eray Can Özkenar, Ferhat Can Dama, Kemal Can Parlak, Ömer Faruk Karataş, Mert Kancefer, Furkan Burak Bayrak, Duru Batır, Necati Akçay, Ferit Karakaya.

REQUEST FOR ARREST

Eleven suspects, including social media influencers Kemal Can Parlak and Tolunay Ören, were referred to the Criminal Court of Peace with a request for arrest after giving their statements to the Prosecutor's Office as part of an investigation into allegations that they opened virtual loot boxes under the guise of digital gaming on social media and encouraged gambling to generate illicit income.

The suspects were released under judicial control following their proceedings at the court. 

News Source: İHA