ISTANBUL
In a major crackdown on tourist scams in Istanbul, 46 suspects face up to 762 years in prison for overcharging and even assaulting foreign tourists at local restaurants and nightclubs.
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An ongoing investigation in Istanbul has led to dozens facing charges for allegedly scamming foreign tourists in the food and beverage sector. These individuals, including 26 who were arrested, have been accused of operating a scheme that involved overcharging tourists and physically assaulting those who refused to pay exorbitant bills.
The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office prepared an indictment charging the suspects with a range of crimes including “establishing an organization with the aim of committing a crime” and other serious offenses. If convicted, the defendants could face sentences ranging from 21 to 762 years in prison.
The indictment detailed a sophisticated scheme operating in popular tourist areas such as Taksim and Karaköy….