Two high-ranking officials have been arrested in connection with a fire at a hotel in the Kartalkaya ski resort, located in Turkey’s Bolu province, CNN Türk reported. The tragedy claimed the lives of 78 people.
The fire broke out at the Grand Kartal hotel on Tuesday night. Among those arrested are Bolu Deputy Mayor Sedat Gülen and Deputy Director of the Fire Department Kenan Coşkun. According to Habertürk, the total number of detainees in the investigation has risen to 18, including the hotel owner.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan vowed that all responsible parties would face justice. Previously, the hotel owner, Halit Ergül, blamed the incident on staff members, including the head chef, an electrician, and security personnel, holding them accountable for the fire.
The judicial investigation is ongoing. The president emphasized that authorities are working to clarify all aspects of the tragedy and eliminate any doubts. Erdoğan also condemned those using the incident for political speculation.
