Bold statement from Tanju Özcan: He reiterated his defense in court

In the first hearing of the case in which Tanju Özcan, who was removed from his post as Mayor of Bolu in recent months, is being tried on charges of "blackmail," the court decided that Özcan should remain in custody. It was stated that three other defendants are being tried alongside him in the case file.

Making a lengthy statement on his personal social media platform regarding his experiences following the arrest process, Özcan used striking expressions stating that the accusations had no basis. In his post, emphasizing his demand for justice by saying "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!", Özcan responded to the accusations point by point.

Özcan first alleged that his efforts to provide scholarships to students and find resources for aid projects were the reason for his arrest. He then criticized being turned into a defendant in a blackmail case where he was the complainant. He explained that three of his friends were arrested due to the slanders of a contractor affiliated with the DEM Party, and that they were tried again and arrested once more over baseless allegations regarding sacrificial animal donations.

Stating that his reputation was damaged by various accusations made while the trial was ongoing, Özcan said, "My friends are being arrested and victimized as a result of slanders made to accuse me and ruin my reputation."

Emphasizing that he could not spare enough time for his family in his own life and that he focused all his working hours on public duty and service, Özcan said, "I have been someone who truly loves their state and nation, not just in words but in essence. My words and actions greatly disturbed those in power. That is why I am being subjected to these disgusting slanders."

He included the following statements in his post:

"ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!

On February 28, 2026, I was arrested for trying to find resources for charitable services such as providing scholarships to students. It didn't end there;

1- While I was in prison, I was turned into a "defendant" on the same charge in a blackmail case where I was the "complainant" (plaintiff).

2- Due to the slanders of a contractor affiliated with the DEM Party, the Bolu Municipality was searched, and 3 of my friends were arrested.

3- I was arrested once again with 3 of my friends, being labeled as a sacrificial animal thief over an allegation of a sacrificial donation we did not make.

4- I was subjected to shameful slanders in the blackmail case heard in my absence.

5- An investigation permit was granted for "using as an official vehicle" the vehicle I took over after the election as an official vehicle.

6- Three separate lawsuits were filed against me for changing directors.

But it still cannot be said that he provided any benefit to himself or his relatives, or that he took money. My friends are being arrested and victimized as a result of slanders made to accuse me and ruin my reputation.

I could not be a good husband and a good father in my life. Because I just concentrated on my work and worked day and night. But it is clear from the ballot box results that I was a good member of parliament and a successful Mayor.

I have been someone who truly loves their state and nation, not just in words but in essence. My words and actions disturbed those in power very, very much. That is why I am being subjected to these disgusting slanders.

The truth will come out one day, but I hope we will see it too!!!"

How Tanju Özcan's statements will be received by the public and what path will be followed in the judicial process continues to be a matter of curiosity.

News Source: 12punto