Operation against Prostitution Network in Tunceli: Multiple Detentions and Suspicion of Child Abuse

Following approximately four months of technical and physical surveillance activities targeting massage parlors operating in Tunceli center, a comprehensive operation was carried out under the coordination of the Tunceli Chief Public Prosecutor's Office. Simultaneous raids, launched at dawn on June 30, 2026, covering primarily Tunceli as well as the provinces of Elazığ, Adıyaman, Bingöl, and Malatya, resulted in the capture of a large number of suspects identified as part of the organization. In the meticulously conducted operation by security forces, victims considered to be exploited by the prostitution network were rescued safely, and necessary protection measures were taken for them.

Within the scope of the operation, detailed searches were conducted at the residences and workplaces of the suspects, and digital materials were seized. During the searches, numerous digital and physical evidence items of potential criminal nature were seized, with the scale of the crime drawing particular attention during the examinations. 10 mobile phones, 1 laptop, various memory cards, hard disks, and POS devices found at the addresses were taken for examination to decipher the financial and communication network of the gang. It was also stated that sexually explicit products and drugs found at the scene, along with the seized cash, were added to the file as material evidence proving the commission of the crime.

The most heart-wrenching aspect of the investigation was that children were also abused during the gang's activities. As a result of identification procedures and taken statements, it was determined that at least 3 children were subjected to sexual abuse in the aforementioned businesses. This situation moves the nature of the operation beyond a simple prostitution raid, bringing the charge of child abuse to the agenda. In light of the technical evidence obtained, the status of the child victims was assessed urgently, and they were provided with psychological support in cooperation with relevant social assistance units and judicial authorities.

The suspects, whose questioning and interrogation processes at the police department were completed, were safely transferred to be referred to the judicial authorities. The suspects were arrested by the court they were brought before and handed over to the penitentiary institution. A total of 13 people, whose statements were taken within the scope of the investigation conducted by the Prosecutor's Office, were released after the procedures at the police station to be consulted for their information. It was learned that trial processes have been initiated for the arrested suspects on charges of committing grave crimes such as human trafficking and child abuse by forming an organized crime organization.

This operation stands out as one of the most comprehensive studies conducted against prostitution networks in the region. It was determined that the gang, centered around massage parlors in Tunceli, established a structure and operated in other provinces as well, which led to the expansion of the operation to cover multiple provinces. It was emphasized that the investigation into the incident is being deepened and efforts continue to decipher the other connections of the gang. Authorities stated that society being sensitive to such organized crimes and taking every precaution regarding the protection of children is the top priority.