Daughter of ex-Turkish presidential adviser detained in Ankara drug probe

Authorities in Ankara have detained Belen Gülnur Çevik as part of a broader narcotics inquiry. She is the daughter of İlnur Çevik, who previously served as a senior adviser to the Turkish president.

Detention confirmed by journalist source

The claim regarding her arrest originated from journalist Dinçer Gökçe. According to Gökçe’s report, Belen Gülnur Çevik was taken into custody within the scope of the drug investigation currently underway in the capital.

Gökçe stated that he spoke directly with İlnur Çevik following the news. The former adviser reportedly told him, "We are monitoring the process."

İlnur Çevik’s political and media career

İlnur Çevik began his tenure as chief adviser to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on February 1, 2016. He held this position for approximately seven years. During his time at the presidency, he also served as a member of the Security and Foreign Policies Board.

Prior to his role under Erdoğan, Çevik worked as a special adviser to Prime Minister Süleyman Demirel between 1991 and 1993. In that capacity, he participated in meetings with foreign state leaders. He also provided advisory services to Necmettin Erbakan.

Background in journalism and education

Born Hakkı İlnur Çevik on June 27, 1952, in Ankara, he started his primary education in London before returning to Turkey to attend TED Ankara College. He completed his university studies at Warwick University in England, graduating in 1973 with degrees in business and computer science.

His professional life in media commenced in 1973 at the Turkish Daily News newspaper. By 1984, he had assumed the role of editor-in-chief at the same publication. He later contributed to the founding of The New Anatolian newspaper.

Throughout his career, Çevik conducted interviews with prominent figures including Indira Gandhi, Hosni Mubarak, and Muammar Gaddafi. He wrote columns for Zaman gazete and produced foreign policy analyses for Daily Sabah. Additionally, he appeared on television programs to comment on political developments.