Turkey Detains 21 in Soccer Betting Scandal Investigation

Turkish authorities have launched a sweeping investigation into an alleged soccer betting scandal that has rocked the nation’s professional football leagues. Prosecutors on Friday announced the detention orders for 21 individuals, including 17 referees and the chairman of an unnamed Super Lig club, accused of participating in illegal betting activities on soccer matches.

According to official reports, 18 of the 21 suspects have already been detained as part of the expanding probe. The investigation aims to uncover the extent of the betting network and determine whether match results were influenced by the accused officials and club members.

The crackdown follows last week’s unprecedented decision by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) to suspend 149 referees and assistant referees. The suspension came after a preliminary internal investigation revealed that several officials in the country’s professional leagues were involved in betting on football games — a violation of strict sporting ethics and national regulations.

Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the Super Lig club involved, but sources suggest that high-level coordination may have facilitated the betting operations. The scandal has drawn significant attention from fans and media across Turkey, as the integrity of Turkish football faces one of its biggest tests in years.

The Turkish Football Federation has vowed full cooperation with prosecutors and stated that it will take “all necessary disciplinary actions” once the investigation concludes. Legal experts believe the case could lead to long-term bans for those found guilty, alongside criminal penalties for organized gambling and corruption.

This latest development underscores Turkey’s growing effort to combat corruption in sports and restore public trust in its football institutions. The investigation remains ongoing, with more arrests and disciplinary actions expected in the coming weeks.