Türkiye arrests 11 men who attempted to kidnap President Erdogan during coup

(Baonghean.vn) - Turkish news site Anadolu Agency said Turkish special forces have just arrested 11 soldiers involved in a plot to kidnap President Erdogan during last month's failed coup.

Turks show support for President Erdogan after coup attempt

The 11 people arrested were part of a group tasked with attacking the hotel where Erdogan was staying on the night of July 15. The hotel is located southwest of Marmaris. However, the Turkish President was tipped off about the dangerous situation and managed to escape before the kidnappers arrived.

The fugitives were arrested in the Ula district of Mugla province by a special gendarmerie force, which was joined by helicopters and drones. Gunfire broke out during clashes between the special forces and criminals, but no casualties were reported.

The arrests come as Türkiye has removed nearly 1,400 members of its armed forces in a purge and tightened control over the military following the coup.

According to Anadolu, a total of 37 soldiers were involved in the plan to kidnap Erdogan in Marmaris and 25 of them had been previously arrested.

President Erdogan’s post-coup purge is on a massive scale. More than 60,000 people from various sectors including the military, judiciary, civil service, and schools have been arrested, suspended, or are under investigation. This has increased tensions between Türkiye and its NATO allies.

The Muslim cleric Gulen is believed by Türkiye to be behind the coup. Gulen is currently living in exile in the United States. He has denied all charges and has condemned the coup.

Quan Le

(According to Reuters)