Ankara mayor Gökçek claims foreign powers behind quake in Aegean Sea

Ankara Mayor Melih Gökçek.

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake in the Aegean Sea on Monday hit Turkey’s western region, with shock waves felt in İstanbul and in neighboring provinces.  Following the earthquake Ankara Mayor Melih Gökçek has reiterated that the earthquake might have been caused artificially and called for an investigation of seismic ships belonging to other countries in the area.

“Now I think that this might be an artificial earthquake. I do not say it is certain but it is a very serious possibility,” Gökçek tweeted. “I say that it should definitely be investigated. Was there any seismic research ship sailing near the epicenter? If so, which country does it belong to?” he said.

It is not the first time that Gökçek has theorized about “artificial earthquakes” triggered by nefarious foreign powers. In February, he said quakes in Çanakkale province could have been organized by dark external powers to destroy Turkey’s economy.

“Today a serious earthquake occurred in Çanakkale. I have investigated and there is a ship conducting seismic research nearby. What this ship is researching and which country it belongs to should be solved urgently. I worry about a potential earthquake that could be triggered artificially. This should definitely be investigated and announced to the public,” he said.

According to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the epicenter of the quake was near the Karaburun district of İzmir, and it took place at 3:28 p.m. local time. The İzmir Governor’s Office announced in a statement that there were no immediate reports of casualties. Two 4.9-magnitude aftershocks hit the district 3:35 p.m.

June 12, 2017

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