Lawyers for former CHP MP Aykut Erdoğdu have appealed the arrest warrant issued as part of an investigation launched over “corruption” allegations that has caused widespread public reaction. In the petition submitted to the court, the lawyers emphasized that there is no concrete or indirect evidence in the file regarding the accusations brought against Erdoğdu.
The petition included the following statements:
"Although it is stated that there is concrete evidence showing the existence of strong suspicion of the crimes of ‘accepting bribes and being a member of an organization established to commit crimes’ against our client, there is not a single piece of indirect evidence in the file, let alone concrete evidence, that our client committed the alleged crimes. The issues somehow cited as the basis for our client's arrest are not even of a nature to create a simple suspicion of a crime, let alone being a reason for strong suspicion.
Attempting to establish an organizational relationship through our client's political contacts clearly reveals that the investigation is being conducted with prejudiced and hypothetical assessments. It is in no way possible to speak of a strong suspicion of a crime regarding our client, and for this reason, a decision should be made for our client's release."
"DETENTION IS DISPROPORTIONATE IN THIS SPECIFIC CASE"
In their petition, the lawyers also stated that there is no possibility of Erdoğdu fleeing or tampering with evidence. The petition stated, “There is no concrete fact that raises a suspicion that our client will flee, hide, or escape. There is no reason that could create even a simple suspicion, let alone a strong reason for suspicion, regarding our client attempting to destroy, hide, or alter evidence, or to pressure witnesses, victims, or others. In terms of the specific case, the detention measure is also not proportionate.”
Furthermore, it was argued that Erdoğdu has a fixed residence, a stable life, and a high level of public visibility, and therefore there is no risk of him fleeing or tampering with evidence. The lawyers requested his release, stating that lighter protective measures could be applied instead of detention.
The court is expected to evaluate the objection in the coming days.
News Source: 12punto
