Turkey's FETO terror group 'set up match-making agency'

By Soner Kilinc

USAK, Turkey

The group behind the July 15 coup attempt in Turkey has set up a match-making service for its followers, according to the confession of one of its alleged members.

The Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) -- led by U.S.-based Fetullah Gulen and accused of arranging the attempted takeover -- set up an association to arrange social events where young, unattached members of the organization could meet.

FETO, also known as the parallel state or Gulen movement, is a wide-ranging organization that has attracted hundreds of thousands of followers worldwide, especially in Turkey where it was born.

The group is said to have infiltrated the Turkish state, particularly the military, police, justice system and education sector as it seeks to take power. The threat it poses was highlighted by the coup bid, which saw Gulen-linked military officers try to seize control of government.

In a statement given to prosecutors, the FETO member, a teacher who has since been released under judicial control pending prosecution, said groups such as marriage and parenting schools were formed under the association to encourage marriage between FETO members.

The teacher, whose testimony has been seen by Anadolu Agency, said the association worked as a “center for family consulting” to spread FETO beliefs and membership.

The teacher is among 19 FETO suspects arrested earlier this month in Usak province, western Turkey.