Legal expert and 12punto columnist Gültekin interprets the 'Özer' ruling from a legal perspective: 'In a period where pressures are being debated'

Following the arrest of Ahmet Özer on charges of "being a member of the PKK/KCK armed terrorist organization," statements were made, particularly from the CHP front, claiming that the decision was political and that an attempt was being made to suppress the will of the citizens.

"EVEN IF THERE IS A STRONG SUSPICION OF A CRIME, THERE MUST ALSO BE A 'GROUND FOR ARREST'"

Esenyurt Mayor Ahmet Özer has been arrested on charges of being a member of the terrorist organization PKK.

This development, which has caused widespread repercussions in public opinion, has sparked debates in political circles and the legal community.

Following Özer's arrest, legal expert Mehmet Ruşen Gültekin made a statement via his X (formerly Twitter) account, interpreting the decision from a legal perspective.

Citing Article 100/1 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CMK), Gültekin pointed out that a strong suspicion of a crime is not sufficient for an arrest on its own, and that specific grounds for arrest must also be present.

Gültekin's statement included the following remarks:

"Even if there is a strong suspicion of a crime, there must also be a 'ground for arrest' in order for an arrest warrant to be issued (CMK Art. 100/1). The grounds for arrest are specified as the suspect or defendant being a flight risk and the suspicion of tampering with evidence. Neither of these seems sufficient to arrest a sitting mayor."

While Ahmet Özer's lawyers announced that they would appeal the arrest decision, Özer's close circle claimed that the decision was a political move. Esenyurt Municipality has not yet made an official statement regarding the matter.

The arrest decision came at a time when pressures on politics and local governments in Turkey are being increasingly debated.