The Turkish Armed Forces launched an internal investigation over claims regarding preparations for a military coup in the country, broadcaster Kanal D reported on Monday.

The probe was launched four months ago with in investigation into leaked classified documents, the report said.

Under an ongoing operation, namely Ergenekon, over 100 people, including retired and active army members, have been charged on the allegation of forming an illegal organization to provoke a series of incidents that would eventually result in a military coup.

The army has placed individuals with access to classified information and documents under strict scrutiny. The investigation concluded with a restructuring of authorizations relating to access to classified information, the re-assignment of suspected officers and legal proceedings opened against those deemed responsible.

The investigators also conducted searches into the non-governmental organizations connected with army members and retired officers.

IDEOLOGICAL VIEWS OF OFFICERS
Under the investigation, the ideological views of army officials as well as the civilian officers were listed, the Kanal D report also said.

According to the report, notes such as "close to X party" were written aside names on a list of army employees.

The alleged diaries of the former Commander of Navy Forces, Adm. Ozden Ornek, were also examined as part of the investigation. Previous media reports claimed that Ornek had kept diaries that included details of coup plots to overthrow the government during 2003-2005. The reports added that the plots failed due a lack of support from the then army chief.

Investigators conducted an in-depth investigation into the alleged diaries and interviewed individuals allegedly involved in the process.

The investigation concluded with the submission of a detailed report to the commandership of the army. The ensuing legal processes were launched in line with the findings detailed in the report.

Kanal D did not give further details on the findings of the investigation or on the number of people charged in connection with the case.
hurriyet.com.tr