Over the past period, a smear campaign against IHH through false and unfounded accusations in certain newspapers, TV channels and websites was carried out. Following the TRUCK incident in the evening hours of 1st January It became clear that the goal was to smear IHH in this process. Radikal newspaper posted a news story in its homepage claiming thata TRUCK that belongs to IHH carrying arms and an MIT member was stopped in Reyhanlı, Hatay. It was soon found out that it was all false accusations with the statements coming from civil authorities and MPs of the district.
During that period, the Minister of Interior EfkanAlamade a public statement that the TRUCKstopped on the orders of the prosecuting attorney of Adana did not belong to IHH.In spite of these statements unfortunately certain circles continue their false accusations.
Later, the very same circles that aim at smearing IHH targeted the foundation during another Van based criminal operation carried out. During the operation that was carried out simultaneously in 6 citiesone person working at IHH Kilis branch office wastaken into custody and the offices was unlawfully searched violating the standard procedures. Certain media organizations took advantage of that incident and publicized it with the headline of “Al-Qaida Operation Against IHH”. So not only a negative perception about IHH was built across the country but also the foundation was linked with terror in the international media. However, the Office of Prosecuting Attorney of Van issued a statement in writing that clarifies the operation was not against any NGOs and that the computers confiscated during the search in its Kilis branch office were returned without examination. Thus the argument was settled. The IHH staff member taken into custody in Kilis was also released following his interrogation. It is clear that the attempts to link IHH with criminal organizations have failed once again and this dirty game was uncovered.
Necessary legal actions are and will be taken against the false accusations made so far by those who try to abort the humanitarian relief activities by creating a negative perception about IHH.
For the information of the public.
