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The “friendly ghost” of childhood cartoons has an unlikely namesake in Türkiye, where prosecutors are investigating a gang called the Caspers.
Turkish prosecutors ordered the detention of 17 suspects, including nine police officers, as part of an ongoing investigation into a new generation armed crime network known as “Casperlar” (plural of Casper in Turkish), authorities said Feb. 19.
The Bakirkoy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office said the suspects include:
Authorities issued search and seizure orders at addresses in Istanbul, Mugla, Bursa, Giresun, Mersin and Sirnak. The operation follows the examination of digital materials obtained during coordinated raids carried out on Jan. 9 as part of the investigation into the group’s activities.
Prosecutors said investigators identified links and benefit-based relationships between gang members and public officials.
According to the statement, some officials allegedly acted outside their legal authority and shared sensitive information with the organization, including data on criminal records, wanted persons, vehicles and arrest warrants.
Authorities said the suspects were believed to have acted within the organization’s hierarchy.
The prosecutor’s office said the Organized Crime Investigation Bureau found evidence that members of the armed group accessed information through contacts within public institutions.
Officials allegedly provided database queries and information that could help gang leaders and members avoid law enforcement scrutiny. Authorities said the investigation continues.
The case marks the latest development in a broader crackdown on organized crime networks operating across several provinces in Türkiye.
Turkish authorities have warned in recent years about the emergence of so-called “new generation” organized crime groups, particularly in major cities such as Istanbul.
Investigators say these groups often consist of young members and operate through loose but structured networks that combine street-level violence with strong online visibility.
Social media platforms, encrypted messaging applications and online games are frequently used for communication and recruitment.
Prosecutors say many recruits are young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who are drawn by promises of money, status and belonging. Authorities have also reported that some groups use minors in armed attacks and intimidation operations.
Experts and officials say this model differs from traditional organized crime by emphasizing visibility, digital influence and rapid recruitment rather than secrecy.
According to earlier indictments and investigations, the Casperlar are an armed criminal organization operating mainly in Istanbul districts such as Bahcelievler, Kucukcekmece and Bagcilar.
The group is allegedly led by Ismail Atiz, known by the code name “Hamus,” who is wanted on charges including intentional killing and is believed to run the organization from abroad.
Prosecutors say the group engaged in a wide range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, armed attacks, threats and deprivation of liberty. Investigators documented at least 116 separate criminal acts across five provinces and 24 districts, including 7 alleged murders.
Authorities also say the organization recruited minors and young people, often between the ages of 15 and 25, for violent operations such as armed attacks and intimidation. Investigators found that financial incentives and promises of status were used to attract recruits, particularly among economically vulnerable youth.
Earlier indictments revealed that the group allegedly used social media platforms and encrypted messaging applications to communicate, promote its activities and recruit new members.
Officials said posts displaying weapons, money and luxury lifestyles helped spread the group’s influence among young audiences. Security forces previously seized weapons, ammunition, police uniforms and other equipment during operations linked to the organization.
Prosecutors said judicial proceedings related to the case are ongoing.
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