Istanbul Health Scandal: Profit Over Care

An Istanbul prosecutor has indicted 47 people, including healthcare professionals, over unethical treatment for profit, resulting in the deaths of 10 newborns. Nine hospitals are shut, and 22 are jailed pending trial. Accusations include forming a criminal group, fraud, and negligence resulting in death.

An Istanbul prosecutor has filed charges against 47 individuals, including doctors and nurses, for their alleged involvement in a health scandal that resulted in at least 10 newborn deaths. The charges stem from profiteering off inappropriate medical treatment at various private hospitals.

The Ministry of Health has responded by shutting down nine private hospitals in connection with the scandal. The indictment accuses the suspects of forming a criminal group to place newborns in specific hospitals, fraudulently claiming payments for inappropriate treatments from Turkey's social security system.

The main opposition CHP party has demanded a parliamentary inquiry and the resignation of Health Minister Kemal Memisoglu. The suspects face serious accusations including forming a criminal group, fraud, forgery, and murder by negligence, with some facing potential sentences of up to 589 years.

(With inputs from agencies.)