Founder of Turkish cryptocurrency exchange, Thodex, that allegedly defrauded users of billions before fleeing to Albania, faces more than 40,000 years in prison, if caught.
Thodex “temporarily suspended” services in April 2021 and founder Faruk Fatih Ozer was pictured leaving Istanbul Airport. Turkish media then reported he was spotted in a hotel in Tirana, but he has not been seen or heard of since.
Suspected Crypto Fraudster Photographed in a Tirana Hotel, Turkish Media Report
The Thodex scam is believed to be the largest con in Turkish history, and some 400,000 people are believed to have fallen victim to him.
It’s alleged he was dumped by his girlfriend before shutting up shop and going on the run. She claimed he was jealous and possessive, and had to rebuff him multiple times after their breakup.
Dead or Disappeared? The Trail of Turkey’s Biggest Crypto Scammer Goes Cold
He is believed to have made off with more than $2.7 billion of customer funds.
Following the arrest of 68 other suspects, a Turkish prosecutor has proceeded with charges against 21 of them. They are seeking up to 40,564 years in prison for each suspect, including the wanted founder.
