President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke about the rise of illegal betting and online gambling in Turkey, saying the government will take strong action to stop it completely. He warned that these activities not only harm individuals but also damage the country’s economy and social life.

Erdoğan said illegal gambling networks have become a major source of illegal income, even bigger than the drug trade. He explained that groups operating from places like Montenegro, Malta, Cyprus, and Georgia have made millions of dollars through these platforms. Many families in Turkey have been hurt by this problem, and Erdoğan said the government is determined to end it before it spreads further.

Call for National Support in the Fight

President Erdoğan called on every part of society to support the fight against illegal betting and online gambling. He revealed that this issue is not a political one, but a national problem that affects everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.

He said that the government’s efforts will continue through the cooperation of the security forces, the judiciary, and the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK). Erdoğan mentioned that public awareness and family involvement are also very important in stopping this harmful activity. “We expect the strong support of all segments of society in this fight,” he said, calling for unity across the country.

A Social Danger for the Future

Erdoğan also warned about the serious social dangers caused by illegal gambling. He pointed to the increasing number of suicide cases linked to betting debts and gambling addiction. The President said that the problem is not only financial but also psychological, damaging people’s mental health and family relations. He stressed that gambling addiction has already taken many lives and is a threat to the nation’s future if not stopped.

Experts also say that many young people are drawn into online betting sites without realizing the long-term risks. The government aims to increase control and awareness to protect citizens, especially the youth, from this growing threat.

Support and Thanks from İsmail Taşdelen

Following Erdoğan’s speech, İsmail Taşdelen thanked the President for addressing the issue of virtual gambling. He said that families also have an important role to play in protecting their children. “I hope families will do their best to discourage their children from engaging in online gambling,” Taşdelen said. He expressed hope that with national unity and effort, Turkey will soon be free from what he called a great scourge.

President Erdoğan’s statement marks a new stage in Turkey’s fight against illegal online gambling. The government’s next steps are expected to include stricter regulations, stronger law enforcement, and greater public awareness to end virtual gambling once and for all.