27 suspects detained in fraud operation using institution names in 6 provinces centered on Diyarbakır.

The Ministry of Interior officially announced that it has carried out a wide-ranging fraud operation covering 6 different provinces, centered on Diyarbakır. The primary objective of the operation was to dismantle the criminal organization that defrauded citizens by unlawfully using the reputation and names of public institutions and organizations. It was determined that the criminal organization in question gained material benefits by abusing the image of the state and institutional influence. As a result of coordinated work by security forces, the activities of the suspects were monitored in detail. Following the planning and intelligence work, the button was pressed for the operation.

As a result of the simultaneous raids, a total of 27 suspects, identified as members of the organization, were detained. It was determined that the suspects gained the trust of the people they called via telephone or digital communication tools by claiming to be calling from an official institution. A large majority of the victims suffered financial losses after being convinced regarding official procedures and payments. The fact that the fraud methods were particularly complex and convincing caused the victims to realize the situation late. Security units stated that they obtained a large amount of evidence in the searches conducted at the addresses and on the digital materials seized.

It was stated that the operation centered on Diyarbakır was planned to cover the other 5 provinces, not just a limited region. In the statement made by the Ministry of Interior, it was emphasized that citizens should be careful against calls demanding money in the name of official institutions. It was reminded once again that public institutions do not demand money directly from any citizen via telephone or communication tools. In such cases, it was stated that citizens should hang up the phone and verify through official channels. It was learned that the legal process regarding the operation and the procedures of the suspects in the detention center continue.

The investigation into the structure of the criminal organization and the methods used has begun to be deepened and expanded. It was noted that examinations are continuing to determine whether the leadership cadre of the organization is among those detained. Whether the detained individuals have records for similar crimes is being scanned through databases. Fraud news and operations are among the areas where security units have been struggling with priority recently. Such operations are aimed at deterring crime groups that often remain in the background.

A message was given that similar operations would continue uninterrupted for the safety of citizens and the protection of their assets. Awareness activities will gain momentum to prevent fraud cases committed in the name of official institutions. The General Directorate of Security announced that it will continue to provide information to the public in case of any new development regarding the issue. It was announced that the procedures of 27 suspects are currently continuing and the processes for their referral to judicial authorities are planned.