Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan.10
By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:
As a result of an anti-corruption operation in Turkish Mersin province, some 35 people have been detained, Anadolu agency reported on Jan.10.
The detainees are accused of taking large bribes in the maritime customs service of the province, according to the agency.
The detainees include 10 senior customs officials at Mersin's provincial port.
It was also reported that those detained in Izmir city as a result of the anti-corruption operation will appear before court today.
Turkish police conducted special operations in Istanbul and Ankara on Dec.17, 2013, resulting in the arrest of several dozens of people that include businessmen and sons of some ministers. The detainees are accused of corruption, smuggling and selling drugs.
Mayor of Istanbul's Fatih Municipality, Mustafa Demir, Director General of Turkish Halkbank Suleyman Aslan and well known entrepreneur Ali Agaoglu were arrested during the same operation by police. Searches were also conducted at Halkbank's office.
After a meeting with Turkish President Abdullah Gul in late December, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced a new cabinet of ministers.
Translated by L.Z.
Edited by S.M.