400 academics involved in irregular appointments: Statement from YÖK President regarding the fake diploma scandal
The investigation into 400 individuals who obtained academic titles by issuing fake diplomas is expanding. YÖK President Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar stated that both YÖK and the universities will conduct separate investigations.
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The discovery of a gang that issued fake diplomas by copying the e-signatures of public officials has caused a major stir in public opinion. While 400 academics are being considered suspects in this scandal, prison sentences ranging from 5 to 50 years are being sought for 65 individuals.
AKP Chairman and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who reappointed Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar as YÖK President for a second term, made statements regarding the fake diploma scandal. Speaking to Türkiye Gazetesi, Özvar stated that they took action immediately after the incident and launched two separate investigations.
Özvar noted the following:
“It is a very serious incident. We will conduct the investigation on two fronts. Both we and the relevant universities will carry out separate investigations. As of yesterday, we sent a letter to the relevant universities to initiate the necessary procedures. There is a need for legal regulation to prevent fake diplomas and increase criminal sanctions.”
Although there is no specific provision in the Turkish Penal Code regarding the issuance of fake diplomas, such cases are evaluated under the scope of forgery of official and private documents. In cases where fake official documents are produced or used, a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years is stipulated.