A trial has begun in Turkey for 47 healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, accused of being involved in a social security fraud scheme linked to the deaths of 10 newborns.
The prosecution claims that the infants were transferred to the neonatal units of 19 private hospitals, where they allegedly underwent unnecessary and prolonged treatments. According to prosecutors, at least 10 children died due to negligence or improper care.
The main defendant, Dr. Firat Sari, who managed the neonatal intensive care units, faces up to 583 years in prison for fraud, document forgery and manslaughter by negligence. He denies the charges, asserting that all procedures were followed.
The scandal has sparked public outrage and calls for stronger oversight of the healthcare system. Nine hospitals implicated in the case have been shut down. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has promised severe punishment for those responsible but cautioned against blaming the entire healthcare system. Over 350 families have filed complaints, seeking investigations into the deaths of their loved ones.
