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Haluk Levent, Ahbap Derneği Leaders Arrested in Donation Probe
Istanbul Cumhuriyet Başsavcılığı has opened a criminal investigation into Ahbap Derneği over alleged misuse of donations collected after the February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Charges include organized‑crime formation, qualified fraud, money‑laundering and violations of the Association Law. More than 30 suspects have been detained; among them are the foundation’s founder Haluk Levent, lawyer Ece Güner, social‑media figure Oğuzhan Uğur and complainant Sevda Kurt, who claims a loss of about 90 million lira. Courts have ordered pre‑trial detention for 14 suspects and a custody request for 19. A specialist expert committee has been appointed to audit the flow of the aid funds. Justice Minister Akın Gürlek said, “Hiçbir yapı devletin denetiminden muaf değildir,” emphasizing that no organization is exempt from state oversight. BBP leader Mustafa Destici called for the most severe penalties, stating the charity’s actions must “pay the heaviest price.” The probe continues with further arrests and legal proceedings.