Turkey detains dozens in soccer scandal

PanARMENIAN.Net - Eight more individuals, including some journalists, were detained on Monday, July 4, after nearly 50 people were detained on Sunday as part of a large-scale operation concerning match-fixing that has shaken Turkey, Today’s Zaman reported.

News reports said Monday's detainees included four journalists and some officials from Giresunspor. Giresunspor sports club Chairman Ömür Ülkü and former Giresunspor player Hakan Karaahmet were detained as part of Sunday's operation as well.

Around 50 people, including administrators, coaches and players from Turkey's top soccer clubs, were detained on Sunday on suspicion of being part of a large match-fixing scheme. Fenerbahçe Chairman Aziz Yıldırım is also among the detainees. He was hospitalized early on Monday for reasons related to his diabetes, but was later released from the hospital.

Police are reportedly investigating alleged match-fixing in the Spor Toto Super League, which ended in May with Fenerbahçe's victory, and the Bank Asya League 1. According to reports, Yıldırım stands accused of establishing an organized criminal group, match fixing and bribery.

In particular, police are investigating the possible fixing of a final week match between Fenerbahçe and Sivasspor, which ended in a 4-3 victory of the İstanbul side and helped it claim the league title, as well as a match against Eskişehirspor. Sivasspor goalkeeper Korcan Çelikay was also detained in Sunday's operation. Sivasspor coach Rıza Çalımbay commented on the investigation and said he harbored no suspicions about Çelikay, noting that he hopes the goalkeeper was only detained to testify.

Turkish politicians commented on the investigation on Monday after it dropped onto the country's agenda like a bombshell. Former Interior Minister Beşir Atalay said Turkey is heading towards becoming a more transparent society while Deputy Prime Minister Bülent Arınç said the investigation shows that the rule of law is becoming stronger in Turkey. Outgoing Parliament Speaker Mehmet Ali Şahin said the operation is upsetting for the history of Turkish football, but promising for its future.