22.09.2025 10:20
Associate Professor Dr. Mehmet Tolga Kafadar, who was on duty at Dicle University Hospital, was arrested for demanding money for surgery. As a result of the prosecutor's investigation, it was alleged that Kafadar received a total of 14.3 million TL from 1,901 patients between 2020 and 2024 and that he did not discharge those who did not pay "under-the-table" fees. During a search of Kafadar's home, a notebook was seized that contained a list of the individuals from whom he had received such payments.
```html
Associate Professor Dr. Mehmet Tolga Kafadar, who works at the Dicle University Faculty of Medicine Hospital in Diyarbakır, was arrested on the allegation of demanding money from patients for surgery. In the prosecutor's investigation, it was claimed that Kafadar received a total of 14.3 million TL from 1901 patients between 2020 and 2024.
REVEALED AFTER A COMPLAINT
According to a report by İsmail Saymaz from Halk TV; the scandal began with a tip-off from Ahmet N., the husband of a patient who underwent surgery in 2024. According to the tip-off, Kafadar demanded money for the surgery, threatening, "If you don't pay, you can't be discharged." Following this, the prosecutor's office took action.
RECORDS LIKE "CREDIT BOOK" IN NOTEBOOKS
During a search of Kafadar's home, two notebooks and notepads were found. It was determined that these documents contained the names of 1901 patients, the fees paid, and detailed information about the remaining debts. The MASAK report also revealed that the doctor's cash flow was significantly above his financial profile.
STRIKING PATIENT STATEMENTS
Patients who provided statements in the investigation described being forced to pay money to be discharged after surgery. It was alleged that some patients were given discounts through bargaining, and discharge procedures were delayed until payments were made. One patient's relative said, "I paid 20 thousand, 5 thousand was missing, they didn't discharge me; they let me go when I completed the payment."
DEFENSE NOT CONVINCING
Kafadar denied the allegations in his statement, claiming that the records in the notebook were kept for scientific research. However, the prosecutor's office stated that it was not possible to cover up the allegations with an explanation of "gifts."
ASSETS SEIZED
As part of the investigation, Kafadar's two properties, two vehicles, and bank accounts were seized.
UP TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON REQUESTED
The prepared indictment stated that Kafadar forced patients to pay money by abusing his influence, thus committing the crime of "extortion and coercion." A prison sentence of 8 to 15 years was requested against him.
Kafadar is currently in prison.
```