Three men arrested in connection with $399,000 online scam and money laundering

Lefkoşa, 21 May 2025 — Three men have been remanded in custody for two days amid an ongoing investigation into a major cyber fraud and money laundering case. 

The trio identified as RU, ED and İZ, all Turkish national are accused of laundering $399,000 obtained through fraudulent means via information technology systems.

The suspects were brought before court in Lefkoşa on charges of “money laundering of criminal proceeds” and “fraud via information systems.”

Police Officer who presented the case details in court, stated that in September 2023, the accused allegedly used online systems to obtain the funds fraudulently. The money was then distributed to various bank accounts in an effort to conceal its origin.

According to the police, ED and İZ withdrew funds from these accounts and handed them over to RU in exchange for a commission.

The investigation led to the arrest of the three suspects on 20 May 2025. Five mobile phones—two belonging to witnesses and three to the suspects—were seized as evidence.

Police confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing and requested an additional two days of detention to further examine digital evidence, gather statements, and trace the financial transactions involved.

During the court hearing, RU’s lawyer questioned whether surveillance footage or official bank statements had been obtained. Police responded that these elements were still under review as part of the ongoing investigation.

The defense also inquired whether the origin of the funds had been conclusively identified. The police stated that financial tracing efforts are still in progress.

After evaluating the testimony and evidence, the judge ordered all three suspects to remain in custody for two more days to facilitate the continuation of the investigation.