Following an examination of allegations contained in digital material obtained as part of another investigation, the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has, on its own initiative, launched an investigation into Mustafa Erdem, the Antalya MP for the New Party, on charges of “bribery” under Article 252 of the Turkish Penal Code. The legal examination of the allegations against Erdem is ongoing.
According to a statement from the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, evidence obtained during an investigation conducted by the Smuggling, Narcotics and Economic Crimes Investigation Bureau was examined. Following this examination, an investigation was opened against Erdem.
The background to the proceedings involves the examination of digital materials belonging to Arda Birinci, who was detained during the fourth phase of a drug and prostitution investigation being carried out in Ankara.
Correspondence was identified which is alleged to relate to ‘case monitoring’ in the Forensic Medicine process in favour of Mustafa Erdem and Muhittin Böcek. It is claimed that the correspondence contained discussions regarding a payment of 5 million dollars and the subsequent return of the money.
In a previous statement, Mustafa Erdem indicated that he was seeking lawful support and guidance regarding whether it would be possible for Muhittin Böcek to be released to house arrest, subject to a report from the Forensic Medicine Institute, due to his health condition.
Erdem stated that he had not accepted the demand for money directed at him and had not requested any unlawful action.
According to the records of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Mustafa Erdem is listed as the Antalya MP for the YENİ Party in the 28th Term. The investigation, initiated ex officio by the public prosecutor’s office, is ongoing.
