The Istanbul 13^th High Criminal Court decided to launch an investigation about İlker Başbuğ, former Chief of General Staff, in the context of the "internet memorandum trial". The case is related to internet sites allegedly established within the General Staff Headquarters with the aim to "illegally spread black propaganda and fraying out the government".

The interim decision was given on 30 December 2011. The decision was based on statements of defendants and certain documents that included Başbuğ's name. It was decreed to send a related request to the Istanbul Public Chief Prosecution which was reportedly received on Monday (2 January).

Thereupon, the Special Authority Istanbul Public Deputy Chief Prosecutor launched an investigation about Başbuğ in the scope of the "internet memorandum". The investigation is being conducted by Cihan Kansız, prosecutor of the Ergenekon investigation into the correspondent clandestine organization charged with the attempt to topple the government.

Başbuğ is being expected to give his statement to the prosecution within the coming days.

A number of defendants of the "internet memorandum" trial had stated that the internet sites subject to trial were prepared with the approval of Başbuğ. The group of defendants includes top-rank military officials.

The Internet Memorandum trial was based on the allegation that the General Staff established 42 websites with the aim to spread anti-government propaganda. Later on, the case was merged with the trial on the Action Plan against Reactionary Forces. (IC/VK)