Turkey takes over FETO-linked schools in Ivory Coast

DAKAR

Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMV), a state-run education body, has taken over four schools linked to the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) in Ivory Coast.

Esra Demir, the Turkish ambassador in Abidjan, told Anadolu Agency that Ivory Coast has shown great solidarity with Turkey after the defeated coup of July 15, 2016.

"The handover of FETO-affiliated schools to TMV is a development which confirms the strong bonds and friendship between the two countries," she said.

Birol Akgun, the head of Turkish Maarif Foundation, said more FETO-affiliated schools would be handed over to TMV especially in Africa.

"Ivory Coast authorities transferred 4 FETO affiliated schools with 300 students to our foundation. After the June 24 election, international politics is changing in favor of Turkey," Demir said.

The schools handed over to TMV include a kindergarten, an elementary school, and middle and high schools.

Ambassador Dr. Hasan Yavuz, a member of the foundation's board, said Thursday the schools will be ready to reopen for the next academic year.

Madeleine Srinsian, Ivory Coast Ministry of Education deputy director general for private schools, said the number of schools run by TMV will increase in the future.

FETO and its U.S.-based leader Fetullah Gulen orchestrated the July 15 coup attempt, which left 250 people martyred and nearly 2,200 injured.

Ankara also accuses FETO of being behind a long-running campaign to overthrow the state through the infiltration of Turkish institutions, including the military, police, judiciary, and schools.