Bribery scandal at the Diyanet: Investigation launched after footage of Ahmet Daştanbek counting money

Ahmet Daştanbek, the Diyanet Presidency's official in charge of Mecca, has become the subject of widespread public outcry following the emergence of footage allegedly showing him. The video, which has circulated on social media and shows Daştanbek counting money, has been described by many as "proof of bribery."

According to BirGün; while the Diyanet Presidency has yet to make an official statement on the matter, it has been learned that an investigation into the allegations has been initiated. Sources within the institution stated that the incident would be handled with diligence.

A Diyanet employee, who requested anonymity, stated that these bribery allegations have been voiced within the headquarters building for a long time. Emphasizing that these claims had not been investigated until now, the same staff member pointed to a lack of oversight, saying, "Auditing activities in Saudi Arabia is not easy."

Noting that the revenue generated by the Diyanet from Hajj organizations is quite high, the staff member added:

"The footage of Daştanbek counting money is only the tip of the iceberg. It is likely that the file will be closed, as the incident could extend to other people and places. The real question that needs to be answered is this: Why is this person, who is alleged to have been taking bribes for 20 years, being protected? Who or whom allowed him to serve in Mecca for such a long time?"