Turkey exposes Chinese espionage network using counterfeit cell towers

Turkish intelligence has dismantled a sophisticated Chinese espionage ring operating in Turkey, which used fake mobile towers known as IMSI-catchers to eavesdrop on Uyghurs and Turkish officials, Middle East Eye reported.

Seven Chinese suspects were arrested, with devices found in their vehicles capable of intercepting phone data, calls, and location information within a 50-meter radius.

The operation reportedly spanned five years, led by a Chinese national identified as ZL, who established shell companies and learned Turkish to facilitate the spying activities. The ring funded itself by hacking Turkish bank accounts to cover expenses. Their primary targets were Uyghur Turks living in Turkey, particularly those suspected by Beijing of anti-China activities, along with Turkish public officials connected to them.

IMSI-catchers mimic legitimate cell towers, tricking phones into connecting and allowing data interception. The collected information was sent to a handler in China, dubbed the “big boss.” The equipment was smuggled into Turkey in parts to avoid detection.

Authorities say this is one of the most advanced espionage operations uncovered in Turkey, surpassing previous rings linked to Israel and Iran that relied on simpler surveillance methods. Turkey hosts a significant Uyghur diaspora, many fleeing repression in China. China denies allegations of genocide and repression against Uyghurs.