MHP MP Car Crash Leads to Judge Facing Charges Despite No-Fault Report

The incident occurred on June 26, 2024, as both Judge İbrahim Selçuk Fendoğlu and MHP MP Zuhal Karakoç Dora were driving towards Ankara. Judge Fendoğlu, driving in the left lane at approximately 120 km/h with a prosecutor colleague as a passenger, stated he noticed the MP's Jaguar with flashing lights approaching from behind and signaling to pass.

According to Judge Fendoğlu, he couldn't immediately move to the middle lane due to other vehicles. He alleges the MP's vehicle then overtook him aggressively from the right ('makas atarak'), cut sharply in front of him, braked, and swerved. Believing this was provocation, and seeing the MP's car lose control and potentially hit a heavy vehicle (TIR or truck) on the right shoulder, the Judge slowed down but continued his journey to avoid confrontation, noting no sounds of a major collision or stopped vehicles.

MP Dora, who sustained minor injuries while her daughter was unharmed, filed a complaint the next day. She claimed she was trying to reach the TBMM General Assembly and that Judge Fendoğlu deliberately blocked her despite her flashing lights and signals, forcing her to lose control and crash. Her account is reportedly supported by a witness, N.K.İ, described as her friend.

Crucially, an investigation included a report from the Adli Tıp Kurumu (Forensic Medicine Institute) Traffic Specialization Department, which found no fault on the part of Judge Fendoğlu. However, the prosecution decided to press charges based on witness statements, leading to the ongoing trial where the Judge faces up to two years in prison for 'trafik güvenliğini tehlikeye sokma' (endangering traffic safety).

What exactly happened between the MHP MP and the Judge?

A traffic incident occurred on the Polatlı-Ankara road. The MP's car crashed. The MP alleges the Judge blocked her and caused the crash; the Judge alleges the MP drove dangerously and cut him off before losing control. Accounts differ significantly.

Why is the Judge being prosecuted if a report found him not at fault?

The prosecution proceeded with charges based on witness testimony, primarily the MP's complaint and her friend's statement, despite the contradictory findings of the official forensic traffic report.

What is the current status of the case?

Judge İbrahim Selçuk Fendoğlu is currently being tried at the Ankara 26th High Criminal Court and faces a potential prison sentence of up to 2 years.

Do you think the prosecution should have proceeded with the case against the Judge despite the expert report finding him not at fault? Let us know your thoughts!

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