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In an ongoing investigation into misuse of disaster relief funds by Ahbap, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has called in broadcasters Ece Uner and Fatih Portakal, lawyer Feyza Altun, musician Gokhan Ozoguz and presenter Oyku Serter to give statements. The five figures are well known for supporting Ahbap and its fundraising campaigns.
The investigation was launched on July 12 over allegations concerning the use of donations collected after the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes. As the probe progressed, its scope expanded beyond the association's own finances to include the movement of funds by its executives and individuals and companies linked to them.
Ahbap is a humanitarian association founded by singer Haluk Levent that became one of Turkiye's most prominent disaster-relief and fundraising organizations following the 2023 earthquakes.
The number of suspects formally arrested pending trial in the case has risen to 27, including Levent and Babala TV founder Oguzhan Ugur. A second wave of raids was carried out in Istanbul, Izmir, Kocaeli and Mugla. Ahbap co-founder Alper Celik was among the 17 people taken into custody during the second round of arrests.
Prosecutors have alleged that some of the funds held by the association were moved through personal accounts and negotiable financial instruments rather than used for their stated charitable purpose. Investigators have also pointed to large sums allegedly placed in betting accounts by individuals linked to the association, along with property transfers said to be tied to separate allegations involving the use of Ahbap's name and promises of charitable support.
Levent denied all the allegations against him in his statements to police and prosecutors. He stated that nearly all of the earthquake donations were used for relief work in the disaster zone under the oversight of provincial governorates and the Interior Ministry. He also said that funds transferred to an associate, identified as Yeliz Kaya, were related to property he intended to donate to Ahbap. Despite his denials, a court ordered his arrest, citing a strong suspicion of criminal activity in the case file.
Justice Minister Akin Gurlek has said the investigation is intended to determine whether donations collected after the 2023 earthquakes were used for their intended purpose. He said prosecutors are acting on concrete evidence and in accordance with the law. He further stated that verifying how the funds were collected and spent is necessary to protect public confidence in the justice system and state institutions.
Gurlek added that charitable organizations remain an important part of social solidarity in Turkiye, but stressed that no individual or organization is beyond legal scrutiny, and that authorities would hold those responsible accountable if wrongdoing is confirmed.
Investigators have said financial intelligence reports, bank records and surveillance findings showed transactions inconsistent with the declared income of several suspects in the case.
The allegations remain part of an ongoing investigation, and authorities have not issued a final court ruling on the merits of the case.
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