17.06.2026 19:10
Simultaneous operations were conducted in 54 provinces against organized structures that market hitmen by forming groups online, attempt to normalize criminal activities, and target young people. 258 suspects who turned the digital world into a den of crime were apprehended and taken into custody.
The Ministry of Interior carried out one of the most comprehensive cyber operations in the history of the Republic against structures that engage in "hitman" activities and glorify criminal organizations on social media platforms. In simultaneous raids across 54 provinces, 258 suspects who turned digital platforms into crime dens and attempted to procure hitmen over the internet were caught red-handed.
SIMULTANEOUS "CYBER BLOCKADE" IN 54 PROVINCES
According to the statement from the Ministry; a massive operation was launched under the coordination of the General Directorate of Security's Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime (KOM) Department and Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices.
In simultaneous raids carried out in a total of 54 provinces, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana, and Diyarbakır, 258 suspects who used social media platforms for organized criminal activities were detained.
THEY ESTABLISHED A "HITMAN EXCHANGE" IN THE VIRTUAL WORLD
Technical and cyber investigations revealed the shocking methods of the detained suspects. It was determined that the suspects formed special groups on various encrypted communication platforms. Through these groups, they posted announcements and shares for "procuring hitmen" or "taking/performing hitman jobs," functioning like an exchange.
TRAP OF NORMALIZING CRIME AND RECRUITING MEMBERS
According to the security forces' findings, the suspects' dirty activities in the digital world were not limited to hitman work. It was determined that the suspects aimed at the following through their social media accounts:
Making posts glorifying crime and criminals, containing threats, insults, and organizational propaganda,
Displaying strength by announcing the dirty activities of organizations,
Bringing animosities and rivalries between criminal organizations to social media platforms,
Manipulating society by creating the perception that criminal activities are "normal and ordinary,"
Using social media as a trap to recruit young people ensnared in their networks as new members.
The processing of the 258 detained suspects at the police station and the examination of their digital materials continue meticulously.