Istanbul, February 19 – An extensive operation launched by the Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has led to the issuance of arrest warrants for 17 suspects, including nine police officers, on charges of aiding a criminal organization known as ‘Casperlar’. The operation, which took place today, targeted individuals suspected of leaking sensitive information to the armed criminal group.
Investigation Uncovers Ties Between Public Officials and ‘Casperlar’
The investigation, conducted by the Organized Crime Investigation Bureau of the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, revealed that members of the ‘Casperlar’ organization had established contact and engaged in beneficial relationships with public officials. Digital materials seized during a simultaneous operation on January 9, 2026, provided crucial evidence for these findings.
According to a statement from the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the examination of these digital materials confirmed that the organization’s executives and members obtained information from public officials who acted contrary to their duties and authorities. This information included details from inquiries related to crime, searches, vehicles, and arrest records.
Arrest Warrants Issued Across Multiple Provinces
As a result of the ongoing investigation, arrest warrants were issued on February 19, 2026, for a total of 17 suspects. This group includes nine police officers, one court clerk, one customs enforcement officer, and one retired police officer. The warrants also include directives for search and seizure operations at the suspects’ identified addresses across several provinces, including Istanbul, Muğla, Bursa, Giresun, Mersin, and Şırnak.
The operation highlights a concerted effort by law enforcement to combat organized crime and address corruption within public institutions. The ‘Casperlar’ organization is described as a new generation armed criminal group, and the alleged involvement of public officials in aiding their activities underscores the seriousness of the charges.
Broader Implications for Public Trust and Security
This development is expected to have significant implications for public trust in institutions and the overall security landscape. The alleged infiltration of a criminal organization into public service roles raises concerns about the integrity of law enforcement and judicial processes.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the specific nature of the information leaked or the extent of the damage caused by the alleged collaboration between the ‘Casperlar’ organization and the implicated public officials. However, the widespread nature of the operation, spanning multiple provinces, suggests a well-established network of individuals involved in these illicit activities.
The Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has emphasized its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, aiming to uncover the full scope of the criminal enterprise and hold all responsible parties accountable. The public awaits further updates as the operation progresses and more details emerge from the ongoing interrogations and evidence analysis.
This operation serves as a stark reminder of the continuous challenges faced by authorities in combating sophisticated criminal networks that seek to exploit vulnerabilities within the system for their illicit gains.
