Erdogan demanded tougher fight against illegal online gambling

President of Turkey instructed the government to strengthen measures against illegal gambling on the Internet. The decree provides for the blocking of offshore casinos and betting platforms, as well as coordination between financial regulators, the police and the anti-money laundering agency MASAK.

The decision is related to the growth of gambling addiction, especially among young people and civil servants. According to a report by Yeşilay organization, the share of gambling-related referrals to addiction help centers has reached 28% of the total number. The authorities pay special attention to cryptocasinos, through which millions of euros pass outside of state control.

At the same time, investigators are looking into case The opposition accused Erdogan's ruling party of inaction and said the authorities «only intervened under media pressure».

Experts note that Erdogan's initiative has not only social but also political background - control over shadow flows may become an important part of the president's election strategy.