Turkish Military investigates suspected Gülenist personnel

Investigations into approximately 1,700 military personnel and 400 civil servants from the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK), who are accused of military espionage and being connected to the blacklisted Gülen Movement, are currently under way.

Turkey's most recent efforts mark the possible beginning of operations inside military institutions against Gülenists, following similar ones within the security forces, bureaucracy, judiciary and the business world.

According to military sources, the investigations are being conducted meticulously and in cooperation with all related institutions, in order to maximize efficiency, while avoiding any possible misconduct and mistrial. It is stated that when a suspect's connection with the Gülen Movement is proved, their case will be submitted to the court. Afterward, the institution in which the suspect was working will decide whether to dismiss them.

Officials conducting the investigations, on the other hand, say that Gülenists are using certain strategies to avoid punishment. These strategies are said to include but not limited to blending in with their colleagues by concealing their distinctions and exorbitantly praising President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who Gülenists see as their archenemy. However, the officials state that these investigations have been under way for some time and most of the suspects' connections with the Gülen Movement have been confirmed.

News outlets have also asserted that Gülenist military personnel will be one of the most crucial topics to be discussed at the Supreme Military Council meeting, which will convene on Aug 1. The meeting is held every August to decide on the promotion of officers.