Istanbul prosecutors have escalated a major investigation into illegal betting on Turkish football matches, ordering the arrest of 46 individuals, including 29 professional players. According to a statement from the prosecutor’s office, 27 of the footballers are suspected of placing bets on matches involving their own teams, highlighting the depth of the scandal. Among them is Metehan Baltaci of reigning champions Galatasaray, who was earlier suspended for nine months for his involvement.

The investigation, which has already shaken Turkish football, previously led to the pre-trial detention of six referees on November 10, as well as the president of Eyupspor, a Super Lig club. Another high-profile player, Mert Hakan Yandas of Fenerbahce, is reported to have placed bets through a proxy account, though prosecutors did not name the other 26 players involved in betting on their own teams.

Authorities have so far detained 35 of the 46 individuals named in the arrest order, while five are currently abroad. In addition to players, two club presidents were implicated for allegedly attempting to influence the outcome of a third-division match during the 2023-24 season. The game drew attention after neither team reportedly attempted to score, sparking the initial investigation, according to Turkish media reports.

Also Read: Turkey's Kizilelma Drone Achieves World-First Radar-Guided Air-To-Air Kill – Redefining Unmanned Combat

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has already suspended more than 1,000 players in connection with the scandal, including 25 from the Super Lig. Sanctions range from 45 days to 12 months, with Konyaspor’s Senegalese winger Alassane Ndao receiving a 12-month suspension. The majority of suspended players—over 900—are from the third and fourth divisions.

Earlier in October, the TFF also suspended nearly 150 referees involved in betting, all of whom have subsequently been dismissed from their positions. These measures reflect the federation’s effort to clamp down on corruption and restore integrity in Turkish football.

As the investigation continues, the arrests and suspensions have sent shockwaves throughout the Turkish football community, raising serious questions about oversight, ethics, and governance in the sport. Authorities have indicated that further actions and arrests may follow as more details of the betting network are uncovered.

Also Read: Pope Leo XIV Urges Strength and Unity for Turkey’s Catholic Minority on Historic Visit