Operation against former executives of Yunus Emre Institute: 17 detained.

Seventeen people were detained as part of an investigation launched against former managers of the Yunus Emre Institute in Ankara. The investigation continues based on allegations that the suspects gained unjust profits through fake projects related to the war in Syria.

OPERATION AGAINST FORMER MANAGERS OF YUNUS EMRE INSTITUTE

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office initiated an investigation based on allegations that the institution was harmed by fake invoices obtained from shell companies. A detention order was issued for 18 people as part of the investigation. Teams from the Financial Crimes Unit of the Security Directorate conducted operations to capture the suspects.

17 PEOPLE DETAINED

Raids were conducted at the addresses of the suspects, including former president Şeref Ateş and other former managers and employees. While Şeref Ateş was not found at home, the other 17 suspects were detained. It was claimed that Ateş fled to Germany. Many documents and digital materials were seized during the searches at the addresses. The suspects were taken to the Financial Crimes Unit of the Ankara Security Directorate for questioning.

It was alleged that the suspects gained unjust profits through fake invoices for projects that were presented as if they were carried out in war zones in Syria. The investigation continues regarding the crimes of 'abuse of duty due to service', 'embezzlement', 'qualified fraud', and 'money laundering from criminal activities'.

STATEMENT FROM YUNUS EMRE INSTITUTE

In a statement regarding the investigation, the Yunus Emre Institute said, "An examination process has been initiated upon suspicions regarding some transactions related to financial matters at the Yunus Emre Institute, upon the instruction of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. In this context, in June 2024, the relevant foundation personnel, especially former Institute President Şeref Ateş, were dismissed by the Foundation Board of Trustees, and then an inspection process was initiated as of July 2024. Following the stages of the inspection, in order to contribute to the transparent and healthy conduct of the process, the vice presidents voluntarily resigned from their positions. Based on the findings obtained as a result of the conducted inspection, a criminal complaint was filed with the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office on December 23, 2024," it was stated.