TURKEY Khashoggi: Police search Saudi consul’s residence
Turkish investigators have entered the residence of the Saudi consul in Istanbul to gather more evidence about the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi. Turkish officials suspect the Saudi journalist was killed during a visit to the nearby consulate on 2 October. The consul, Mohammed al-Otaibi, flew back to Riyadh on Tuesday. He denies knowing what happened […]
Security staff stand in front of the residence of Saudi Arabia’s Consul General Mohammad al-Otaibi in Istanbul, Turkey October 17, 2018. REUTERS/Murad Sezer
Turkish investigators have entered the residence of the Saudi consul in Istanbul to gather more evidence about the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi.
Turkish officials suspect the Saudi journalist was killed during a visit to the nearby consulate on 2 October.
The consul, Mohammed al-Otaibi, flew back to Riyadh on Tuesday. He denies knowing what happened to Mr Khashoggi.
However, a Turkish newspaper says Mr Otaibi can be heard in purported audio recordings of Mr Khashoggi’s death.
Yeni Safak, which is close to the government, quotes him as telling alleged Saudi agents sent to Istanbul: “Do this outside. You’re going to get me in trouble.”
In Washington, President Trump says his administration has asked to hear the audio recording – “if it exists”. He also dismissed the idea he was “giving cover” to the Saudis – a key US ally.
Earlier, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed the case with Turkey’s president and foreign minister during a visit to Ankara. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the meeting was “beneficial and fruitful”.