Turkish Prosecutors Issue Orders in Betting Case
In Turkey, prosecutors issued arrest warrants for 46 suspects involved in online betting, including 29 professional footballers, 27 of whom placed bets on matches involving their own clubs.
The operation marks the second phase of the investigation known as “Futbolda Bahis Soruşturmaları.” So far, 35 people have been detained, including Galatasaray defender Metehan Baltacı, Fenerbahçe midfielder Mert Hakan Yandaş, sports commentator Ahmet Çakar, and referee Zorbay Küçük.
Basis for the Operation
The investigation used data from MASAK, legal betting websites, and open sources. Analysis of 101 footballers who previously received disciplinary sanctions was also included.
Following a review of bank transactions, betting histories, and other evidence, prosecutors authorized a large-scale operation across 16 provinces in Turkey.
Footballers Betting on Their Own Clubs
It was confirmed that 27 footballers placed bets on their own teams’ matches, including Galatasaray player Metehan Baltacı. Fenerbahçe midfielder Mert Hakan Yandaş placed bets via third parties on legal platforms.
Other Individuals Involved
Detained individuals also include sports commentator Ahmet Çakar and referee Zorbay Küçük, who are linked to financial transactions and betting activity.
Fixed Matches
Special attention was given to the match “Ankaraspor — Nazilli Belediyespor” on April 28, 2024. Investigators found evidence of attempts to influence the outcome, involving club owners, presidents, and coaches.
- Ankaraspor owner Ahmet Okatan
- Club president Mehmet Emin Katipoğlu
- Nazilli Belediyespor president Şahin Kaya
- Two club coaches
The match “Ümraniyespor — Giresunspor” on December 24, 2023, is also under investigation. In this case, agreements among six participants, including one footballer, were identified.
Financial Suspicions
Bank account analysis revealed suspicious transactions involving former Adana Demirspor president Murat Sancak, sports commentator Ahmet Çakar and his spouse, and referee Zorbay Küçük. All are among the 46 suspects.
Arrests and Investigations
Under Article 6222 on the prevention of violence and disorder in sports, Istanbul police conducted simultaneous arrests, searches, and seizures.
- 35 people have already been detained
- 5 suspects are abroad
- Others are still being sought