The incident came to light after the captain was recorded by a passing ship's crew while reportedly collecting bribes, leading to a formal complaint to authorities. As a result, the pilot captain has been suspended from duty, and a comprehensive investigation into the matter has been initiated.
Officials are continuing to examine the details of the case, with the Turkish Coastal Safety Authority and other relevant bodies closely monitoring the investigation. In response to the unfolding situation, the President of the Turkish Pilots Association stated that the incident occurred in the Çanakkale Strait and emphasized that both parties involved in the act are liable for wrongdoing.
"We aim to ensure responsible journalism that does not cast suspicion on all pilot captains," the association's president said, expressing gratitude for careful handling of the story.
It was also noted that the Deputy Minister took immediate action to suspend the pilot captain at the time of the incident, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing such offenses.