Turkish court bans Ergenekon reporting

ISTANBUL, Turkey, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- A ban has been placed on all published reports about the alleged Ergenekon neo-nationalist group and its corresponding trial, a Turkish court has ruled.

The 13th High Criminal Court of Istanbul has implemented a ban on reporting news about the ongoing trial of retired Brig. Gen. Veli Kucuk and other alleged Ergenekon members, Bianet reported Friday.

This week's ban is intended to prevent members of the defense from using DVD records related to the conspiracy case in the media. The court was concerned such leaks would violate related individuals' right to privacy.

A hearing in the ongoing conspiracy case took place Friday as defendant Gazi Guder, who is accused of helping a suspected bomber hide from authorities, testified in his defense.

"Even if I knew, I would have still hidden Tekin," Guder said, referring to former Capt. Muzaffer Tekin and his alleged involvement in a 2007 bombing.

Bianet said Petty Officer Mahmut Ozturk was released from custody Tuesday, resulting in the drop of total Ergenekon suspects to 45.