Turkish Authorities Detain 16 in OnlyFans Money Laundering Probe
Turkish authorities have launched a significant crackdown on alleged money laundering linked to content on the OnlyFans platform, detaining 16 individuals and seizing assets valued at approximately 300 million lira, equivalent to £6.9 million. The wide-ranging investigation unfolded on Friday, February 13, 2026, and is being led by a specialised department focusing on terrorism financing and money laundering crimes.
Scope of the Investigation
According to the Istanbul chief public prosecutor’s office, the probe targeted a total of 25 suspects and two companies. Operations were conducted across eight provinces throughout Turkey, including major urban centres such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya. Prosecutors stated that suspects generated income by sharing explicit content on social media and directing users to paid platforms, including OnlyFans and private messaging channels such as Telegram.
Background on OnlyFans Ban in Turkey
OnlyFans has been blocked in Turkey since June 7, 2023, by a ruling of an Istanbul court on the grounds that it hosted content deemed contrary to public morality and family values. Despite this ban, prosecutors found that suspects accessed the platform via virtual private networks (VPNs) to continue their activities.
Asset Seizures and Laundering Methods
Authorities identified and seized 10 properties, 14 vehicles, and two companies linked to the suspects. The total value of these assets was estimated at around 300 million lira. According to the prosecutor's office, the suspects laundered proceeds through the purchase of assets, as well as investments in bitcoin and gold, highlighting sophisticated methods to obscure the origins of their funds.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to pursue leads and gather evidence. This case underscores the challenges of regulating online platforms in the face of evolving digital circumvention tactics and the global nature of financial crimes.
