Investigation into "Ergenekon" Handbooks

The Public Chief Prosecution of Kadıköy (Asian side of Istanbul) launched an investigation into journalists Ertuğrul Mavioğlu and Ahmet Şık on the grounds of their books "Understanding the Counter Guerilla and Ergenekon" and "Who is Who in Ergenekon". The journalists are co-authors of the two volumes on subject.

Ergenekon is a clandestine terrorist organization nested within the state and the military. The organization is charged with various crimes staged for the ultimate purpose of triggering a military coup.

The Prosecution initiated the investigation under the suspicion of "violation the secrecy of an investigation" according to article 285 of the Turkish Criminal Law (TCK).

Investigation launched on the day of publication

It turned out that the investigation into the two books of a total of 1,128 pages was launched on 14 April, the day of their publication. While the investigation into the first volume was launched ex officio by the prosecution, the procedures related to the second volume were initiated by the Police General Directory upon a complaint. Journalist Ahmet Şık is going to give his statement on coming Monday (31 May).

Mavioğlu told bianet that the books are most of all guide books to understand the Ergenekon Investigation and the trial process. According to the journalist, the books are meant to do away with the confusion about the matter.

Ahmet Şık argued that he felt the need of writing such a book because of incorrect news conveyed by the media regarding the Ergenekon process. (EÖ/VK)