Turkish Minister: $245 Million Raised by 'Ahbap' Under Investigation for Misuse
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gürlek provided details on the "Ahbap" investigation, stating 245 million dollars was collected for earthquake relief.
- He alleged Haluk Levent attempted to flee the country and that donations were used for gambling.
- Gürlek also commented on separate investigations into the death of Muhsin Yazıcıoğlu and the Gülistan Doku case.
Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gürlek has shed light on the ongoing investigation into the "Ahbap" organization, revealing that approximately $245 million was collected for earthquake relief efforts. Speaking on TRT Haber, Gürlek stated that the probe, which began with the detention of Haluk Levent's brother, has uncovered significant financial activities.
Gürlek alleged that Haluk Levent, the founder of Ahbap, attempted to flee the country and was apprehended on July 12 after discovering a travel ban. The minister further claimed that the collected donations were potentially used for gambling and betting, describing it as a "very large organization" with 41 companies linked to Levent. He indicated that the investigation could expand, citing "unbelievable debt notes" and alleged misuse of public funds.
In addition to the Ahbap case, Gürlek addressed other high-profile investigations. He suggested FETÖ involvement in the death of Muhsin Yazıcıoğlu, citing evidence pointing to a possible assassination. Regarding the Gülistan Doku case, he confirmed ongoing investigations by two prosecutor's offices and mentioned the arrest or detention of individuals connected to the case, including hospital staff who allegedly deleted records. Gürlek also highlighted the importance of Umut Altaş, a key witness in the Doku case, who is currently in the U.S. awaiting extradition proceedings.
Haluk Levent kaçma girişimindeydi ve panikle yurt dışına çıkmak için harekete geçti. Haluk Levent, İzmir'den tekneyle Yunan adalarına kaçacaktı. 12 Temmuz'da yurt dışına çıkış yapmak isterken yurt dışı çıkış yasağını öğrendi. Telefonunu kapatınca savcılarımız harekete geçti. Pazar günü Haluk Levent'i aldılar.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.