Ege University Targeted in Operation: 150 Vehicles, 49 Properties Seized Amid Corruption Probe

An operation targeting alleged corruption at Ege University has resulted in the seizure of substantial assets, including 150 vehicles and 49 properties. The investigation, initiated by the Izmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, focuses on irregularities in public tenders and direct procurement processes within the university's revolving fund management and purchasing units.

Authorities have identified assets belonging to 26 suspects and 16 companies that are believed to have been acquired through illicit activities. These assets have been confiscated by court order. The investigation follows a broader probe where 47 suspects were initially detained on June 9 in an operation spanning six provinces. Among those detained were the alleged ringleader, identified as Ş.Ç., the former Dean of the Ege University Faculty of Medicine, D.B., and the former chief hospital administrator, Ö.Ö.

Subsequently, on June 12, 27 individuals, including Ş.Ç., D.B., and Ö.Ö., were formally arrested and remanded in custody. The allegations include benefiting specific firms, causing public loss, and engaging in fraudulent procurement practices. Preliminary assessments based on reports from the Court of Accounts (Sayıştay) indicate that these procurement transactions have resulted in a public loss estimated at approximately 3.1 billion Turkish lira.

Further details revealed that Ş.Ç., despite holding no official position within the university, allegedly acted as a de facto manager and was even allocated an office space. The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption and recover assets believed to be proceeds of crime.