Turkey earthquake aftermath triggers charity probe and reconstruction push

Following the 6 February 2023 earthquake that devastated large parts of Turkey, authorities have opened an investigation into the Ahbap Association after allegations that billions of lira in donations were diverted to gambling and other non‑charitable activities. The Turkish Bar Association (TÜRMOB) saw its former president and three legal professionals detained. TÜRMOB defended the investigation report as a lawful institutional activity, stating “Meslektaşlarımızın Yanındayız” (We stand with our colleagues), while critics demand transparency about who authorized Ahbap’s partnership and how the funds were managed.

In the hardest‑hit Hatay province, roughly 100,000 buildings were completely destroyed and about 338,000 apartments, homes and businesses were lost. The disaster caused over 53,000 deaths nationwide and left 810,000 dwellings in ruins. While the government has provided emergency shelter, hygiene, health and education services, economic recovery has lagged. Officials acknowledge the lack of a comprehensive disaster program and note that aid distribution has been uneven, leaving many local businesses without support as the region begins the long rebuilding process.