Turkish general arrested for human trafficking across Syria border

Duvar English

A court in Turkey’s southeastern Urfa province on June 27 arrested Brigadier General Bilal Çokay for human trafficking with a staff vehicle across the Syrian border. 

Çokay was detained in the capital province of Ankara and taken to Urfa, where he was detained by the court after giving his statement.

The defense ministry confirmed the incident and announced that an investigation had been initiated after allegations surfaced that Çokay used his official vehicle for human trafficking. 

The ministry’s public relations adviser Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk made the following statement,

"It has been identified that the action was carried out by the Brigade Commander in Syria using his official vehicle, along with his Orderly Non-Commissioned Officer and security personnel. The matter has been reported to the prosecutor's office."

Aktürk also noted that judicial and administrative investigations were being conducted confidentially by authorities.

"Those involved have been detained. The contracts of contracted personnel have been terminated, and other personnel have been referred to the high disciplinary board. The unit commander, Brigadier General, has been retired. The commander responsible for the border crossing has been reassigned," the adviser concluded. 

Aktürk also stated in a June 27 press release that the prosecutor’s office had issued a detention order. 

“The administrative and judicial processes are proceeding in connection with each other. Administrative procedures will continue to be implemented in line with developments in the judicial process. The Turkish Armed Forces will take necessary action against anyone who acts against discipline and laws, regardless of rank," announced the ministry.