Verdict to Be Announced Tomorrow in KSTU Fake Diploma Case

During today's session, presided over by Judge Gülay Uğur, two witnesses testified, and 24 pieces of evidence were presented. Prosecutor Damla Güçlü represented the prosecution, while defense lawyers Doğa Zeki and Mustafa Uluğ appeared for the defendants.

The prosecution's second witness, Mehmet Altuntaş, who serves as the founding company’s secretary and acting director at KSTU, stated that by late 2023, concerns over irregularities led to an internal investigation authorized by the university’s founder, Ece Uysal. Altuntaş revealed that Barış Sel was officially registered as a student on January 18, 2023, and graduated on May 10, 2023, raising serious suspicions. Analyzing transcripts, Altuntaş found that courses appeared to have been completed retroactively, with grades entered outside the normal process. Further inquiries confirmed that instructors had not recorded the grades themselves.

Regarding the thesis requirement, Altuntaş noted that there was no record of a supervisory panel, a copy of the thesis in university archives, or a documented presentation by the student. Additionally, no evidence of a transfer from another institution was found, contradicting academic regulations.

Following the testimony, Prosecutor Güçlü requested that the case be referred to the Nicosia Assize Court, a motion to which the defense did not object. Defense lawyer Doğa Zeki stressed the need for a swift trial, citing prolonged legal proceedings.

Judge Gülay Uğur announced that the court’s decision on the preliminary hearing would be delivered tomorrow.