Aztec Smash

About Aztec Smash

Operators were encouraged to take several practical steps, including enhancing terms and conditions, maintaining robust evidence and uptaking technical standards.

They have also been advised to thoroughly review their Know Your Customer, fraud detection protocols and contractual terms to reflect the guide’s recommendations. 

They must also evaluate their current technical safeguards to ensure alignment with regulator expectations and certification standards.

What is Aztec Smash?

Türkiye’s Law No. 7258 criminalises the operation of gambling activities without a licence. Offences are often combined with money laundering and fraud charges, amplifying legal consequences for offenders.

This latest operation forms part of an ongoing surge in Türkiye’s efforts to curb illegal betting throughout 2026. 

Earlier this year, Turkish Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi called illegal betting a “scourge that corrupts society” and emphasised a move towards tougher enforcement.

What is Aztec Smash?

But the court said that point did not affect the validity of the by-law, adding that it saw no evidence of a tax that would choke businesses. 

The judges highlighted the number of gaming halls in the city remained largely stable after the increase. 

The court also dismissed the equal-treatment argument, noting that gaming machines are taxed by the municipality while casino taxation falls to Hesse.