On January 7, 2009, Turkish police arrested approximately 40 people in an investigation of an alleged attempt to overthrow the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). Those arrested in the coup included three retired generals, a journalist, a professor, and former head of the police anti-terror unit. Police also searched the home of the country's former top prosecutor, Sabih Kanadoglu. Known for his opposition to the AKP, Kanadoglu testified in January 2010 regarding the investigation. The arrests were part of an larger investigation into the radical anti-government network, Ergenekon, that allegedly has deep roots in Turkey's military. As of June 2010, hundreds had been arrested and charged with membership in the clandestine organization. Many of the trials are ongoing.

Flag of Turkey

Learn more about Turkey and Ergenekon from the JURIST news archive.

Also on This Day at Law:


US AG ruled deportation cannot be challenged for ineffective legal assistance
ECHR ruled sex trafficking violated human rights convention