Investigations into Turkish football: MHK boss and suspects in custody
After raids on Turkish football, MHK chairman Ferhat Gündogdu and four other suspects remain in custody.
Quick Look
- After raids on Turkish football, an Istanbul court ordered MHK boss Ferhat Gündogdu and four other suspects to be remanded in custody.
- They are accused of, among other things, forgery of documents and abuse of trust.
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Why It Matters
The MHK is the Turkish Football Association's body that ranks and appoints referees for league games.
After the raids on Turkish football, the chairman of the central referee committee MHK, Ferhat Gündogdu, and four other suspects must remain in custody. This was decided by a court in Istanbul, as the state news agency Anadolu reported. The officials are accused of forging documents, abuse of trust and illegally obtaining personal data.
However, two suspects who were also arrested were released under conditions. This was preceded by searches in Istanbul, Ankara and two other cities.
In addition to Gündogdu, two top referees are also said to be among the suspects. The Illegal Betting and Sports Crime Department of the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office is responsible for the investigation.
No connection to illegal betting
The MHK is the body of the Turkish Football Association that grades, appoints referees for league games and evaluates their performance. Their decisions have long been the focus of Turkish clubs and fans, who often question referee appointments.
According to initial findings, there is no connection to the scandal in Turkish football due to allegations of illegal sports betting against referees, players and club officials. Last November, Turkish prosecutors issued arrest warrants for 21 people, including 17 referees and the president of a top Turkish club, as part of a nationwide betting scandal.
Open Questions
- What specific consequences does imprisonment have for the MHK?
- Will other suspects be arrested?