GENERAL HUMAN-RIGHTS REPORT TURKEY JANUARY 2014

Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (HRFT/TIHV) –  01-02 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/001) Coercion in prison…

Selahattin Elper from Mardin E Type Prison, was not medically treated on the grounds that he declined the treatment with his hands cuffed in Diyarbakır Training and Research Hospital on 1 January 2014.

(01/002) Intervention to the protest in Istanbul Province…

Aykut Kelek (20) had been wounded by the private security officer with metal detector as they argued on the grounds that they attempted to use the metro without paying it because he and his brother were broke in Taksim Metro Station in Istanbul Province on 30 December 2013. Five members of the Halk Cephesi were beaten and detained as they were making public statement on the incident on 1 January 2014.

(01/003) Tried students…

Several protests were conducted against the Higher Education Council (YÖK) in its anniversary of foundation in several provinces on 6 November 2013. Police teams had interfered to the students who had occupied the room of the Dean of Ankara University Faculty of Letters with gas bombs and had detained 9 students. Seven out of the 9 students were arrested on 9 November 2013. The arrested students were released after the objection of their lawyers.

The investigation against 9 students was finalised and the indictment was accepted by Ankara Heavy Penal Court No. 13 on charges of “being a member of an illegal organisation” under Article 314 of TPC, “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” under Article 7/2 of Anti-Terror Law, “hindering education”, harming public goods”, “seriously wounding”, “resisting”.

(01/004) Work accident in Bursa Province…

İbrahim Beşirov (16) caught his hand to the injection machine and lost one of his fingers in İnegöl District of Bursa Province on 1 January 2014.

(01/005) Samsun Work accident in Province…

Fatih Özsarıkaya (22) died after falling in to the elevator shaft in the building under construction in Samsun 1 January 2014.

 

 

03 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/006) Exhumation for the party executives…

HADEP Silopi District Branch Chairperson Serdar Tanış ve Executive Ebubekir Deniz who had been called to the headquarters by Captain Süleyman Can and they had been subjected to forced disappearance after they had gone to the headquarters in Silopi District of Şırnak Province on 25 January 2001.

The graves that allegedly belong to Tanış and Deniz were exhumed in Dargeçit District of Mardin Province on 2 January 2014.

A body which had been wrapped to a blanket was found and samples were taken for DNA test and sent to İstanbul Forensic Medicine Institute.

Dargeçit Municipality Graveyard director Hacı Akar had stated that Serdar Tanış had been brought to the cemetery by soldiers and Special Task Force police officers and inhumed after midnight.

(01/008) Coercion in prison…

It is revealed out that 12 juveniles Sincan (Ankara) Youth and Juvenile Prison were tortured by the guardians on 2 January 2014.

Z.Ş. the mother of one of the juveniles K.Ş. (16) stated after she talked with his son that the children were tortured after their hands were cuffed and they were stripped naked and cold water sprayed on them.

(01/009) Tried trade unionists…

Revolutionary Health Workers Trade Union Devrimci Sağlık İşçileri Sendikası (Dev Sağlık-İş) had protested the minimum wages determined in the commission in front of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security in Ankara Province on 29 December 2011.

On 18 February 2014 Ankara Penal Court of First Instance No. 5. Will began to hear the case against 37 protestors on charges of “opposing to the Law No. 2911 on Meetings and Demonstrations”.

(01/010) Arrested people in İstanbul Province…

Şerife Erbay, Erkan Salduz, Cebrail Gündoğdu and Barış Boğazkaya who had been detained in home raids of Fighting with Terror Department in İstanbul Province on 31 December 2013 were arrested on charges of “being a member of an illegal organisation-Marxist Leninist Communist Party (MLKP)” on 2 January 2014.

(01/011) Racist attacks in Afyonkarahisar Province…

Five students were wounded in the attack of right-wingers on Kurdish students in Afyonkarahisar Province on 2 January 2014. The same day three Kurdish students were attacked by a crowded group and one of the Kurdish student S.D. took refuge in District Security Directorate and he was detained in Emirdağ District.

(01/012) Work accident in Afyonkarahisar Province…

Adem Erik died after he was caught inside the container of the garbage truck in Afyonkarahisar Province on 2 January 2014.

(01/013) Racist attacks in Erzurum Province…

Five students were wounded in the attack of right-wingers on the houses of Kurdish students in Erzurum Province on 2 January 2014.

(01/014) Work accident in Hatay Province…

Veysel Gökay (24), Erdal Gökay (21) and İbrahim Sarı (28) were wounded with the explosion of an oxygen tube in Kırıkhan District of Hatay Province on 2 January 2014.

 

04-06 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/015) Investigation on Killings by Unknown Assailants…

On 3 January 2014, Ankara Heavy Penal Court No 13 accepted the indictment prepared after the 3rd investigation against 19 persons on charges of being perpetrators of killings by unknown assailants including Savaş Buldan and 2 friends of him in 1990s in Ankara neighbouring provinces. The date of the first hearing will be announced.

(01/016) JITEM Case concerning Killings by Unknown Assailants in Cizre …

On 3 January 2014, Diyarbakir Heavy Penal Court No 6 continued to hear the Gendarmerie Intelligence Service JITEM case concerning the killings of 20 persons by unknown assailants between the years 1993 and 1995 when Cemal Temizöz was the Gendarmerie Commander in Cizre. There are 8 defendants, 3 of them under arrest, were indicted in this case.

The public prosecutor presented the final opinions on the merits of the case. Th court ruled the continuation of the arrests of Cemal Temizöz, Burhanettin Kıyak and Adem Yakin on the grounds of the qualification of the crime committed, the possibility of escape and lack of judicial control mechanism. The court adjourned the hearing to 14 March 2014 for the preparation of defence.

(01/017) Excavation in Mardin for Disappearances in Detention…

On 4 January, HRA Mardin branch announced that the bones found during the excavations conducted on 10 June 2003 relying on the statements of the witnesses nearby Tilzerin (Aysun) village were the bones of Abdurrahman Coşkun according to the report prepared by Forensic Institute. Public Prosecutor in Kızıltepe decided to conduct excavations on allegations of disappearances in detention perpetuated by officials or civilians working for Gendarmerie Commandership in Kızıltepe in 1990s. Bones were found during the excavation of water-wells in the region allegedly belonging 3 different persons.

(01/018) Death in Prison…

Seyithan Taşkıran (44) who had an heart-attack on 17 December 2013 in Bitlis E-type Prison reportedly died on 4 January 2014 in Dursun Odabaşı Medical Centre.

(01/019) Pressures in Prison …

After the disclosure of beatings of 12 children incarcerated in Sincan Youth and Children Prison in Ankara on 2 January 2014, 4 children were reportedly transferred to Maltepe Children Prison in Istanbul and 4 children to Şakran Children Prison in İzmir on 4 January 2014.

(01/020) Violations due to Excessive Use of Force by Security Forces…

Police officers in plain clothes detained under beatings 2 children under 18-years and a person recording the incident. The police were reportedly intervening an incident in Beyoğlu district of Istanbul on 5 January 2014.

(01/021) Gezi Park Trials…

İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 22 announced that the first hearing of the case launched against 36 persons on charges of being member or leading members of the illegal Revolutionary Quarters organisation will be held on 15 June 2014. 4 of the defendants are in pre-trial detention.

On 11 June 2013, 72 persons were detained during the raid of Socialist Democracy Party (SDP) premises in Istanbul while the Gezi Park demonstrations were still on-going. 4 of the detainees were arrested afterwards.

(01/022) Demonstration Intervened in Istanbul…

Aykut Kaplan and Berfu Canbay who staged a demonstration in front of Çağlayan Courthouse to protest in the frauds and the 61st government of Turkey on 3 January 2013 were beaten by private security guards before police custody.

(01/023) Protest Intervened in Adana …

The police inter vened a group of people who chanted slogans against Adana Governor during “liberation day” celebrations on 5 January 2014 and detained 10 persons.

(01/024) Attack Against Party Premises …

An armed attack was organised by unknown persons against the premises of Great Union Party (BBP) in Keçiören district of Ankara on 4 January 2014. The attack caused material damage.

(01/025) Work Accident in Kastamonu…

Mustafa Ilgaz (32) fell from the roof of the brick factory in Suluca village of Kastamonu where he was working and died on 5 January 2014.

(01/026) Work Accident in Mersin…

Syrian Muhammed Abdu (26) was seriously wounded in a construction area when iron sticks fell on him from lift on the 13th floor on 5 January 2014 in Mersin.

 

 

07 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/027) Roboski Massacre Investigation …

Military Prosecutor at General Staff reportedly closed the case concerning the massacre in Roboski village of Uludere district in Şırnak on the grounds that there was no delinquency of authorised personnel. 34 villagers were bombed to death during incident on 28 December 2011.

(01/028) Ali İsmail Korkmaz Investigation…

The lawyers of Ali İsmail Korkmaz’ family who was beaten to death during the demonstration staged in Eskişehir on 3 June 2013 to protest in the police intervention to Gezi Park demonstrations objected the procedures of taking the testimonies of the defendants by Eskişehir Heavy Penal Court No 1 on 6 January 2014 before the start of the first hearing of the case at Kayseri Heavy Penal Court No 3. Ali İsmail Korkmaz (19) died on 10 July 2013 and 9 persons were indicted in this case. A police officer and 4 civilians are in pre-trial detention. The court accepted the objection and adjourned the hearing to 28 February 2014.

(01/029) Torture and Ill-treatment in Custody…

Berkay Dut (26) made an official complaint against police officers who allegedly beat Berkay Dut and his friend on 3 January 2014 during a control while they were driving their own vehicle.

(01/030) Pressures in Prison…

4 children who were transferred Şakran Children Prison in İzmir on 4 January 2014 from Sincan Youth and Children Prison after the disclosure of beatings of 12 children incarcerated in Sincan Youth and Children Prison in Ankara on 2 January 2014 were reportedly tortured.

(01/031) Pressures in Prison …

Kocaeli MP Lütfü Türkkan made an announcement after his visit to Silivri (İstanbul) Prison and said that the prisoner Yalçın Küçük (75) was suffering from cataract and the prisoner Fatih Hilmioğlu (60) was talking to the walls in the nights.

(01/032) Gezi Park Trials …

16 persons who were arrested on 18 December 2013 in İstanbul on the allegations of supporting Gezi Park demonstrations were released from Edirne F-type Prison on 6 January 2014 on objection of their lawyers.

(01/033) Demonstration Intervened…

10 members of People’s Front who started hunger strike on 6 December 2013 on the birthday of Berkin Elvan (15) who was shot at head by the police with tear gas canister during the Gezi Park demonstrations in Okmeydani quarter of Istanbul when he was going to buy bread were detained by the police.

(01/034) House Raids…

3 persons were detained on the allegations of “being member of YDG-H” during the house raid conducted by the police and Special Forces units on 6 January 2014 in Cizre district of Şırnak.

 

 

08-13 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/035) Hrant Dink Case…

After the 9th Penal Chamber of the Court of Cassation quashed the decision of acquittal of 18 defendants, Istanbul Heavy Penal Court No 14 started to hear the retrial on 7 January 2014.

The testimonies of the defendants were taken at the hearing and the court ruled arrest warrants against the defendants Osman Hayal and Zeynel Abidin Yavuz for their testimonies to be taken. The court adjourned the hearing to 12 February 2014.

(01/036) Excavations in Mardin …

On 7 January 2014 HRA Mardin branch announced that human bones were found during the construction in the garden of Mardin Gendarmerie Headquarters on 1 January 2014. The building was allegedly known as premises of Gendarmerie Intelligence Service JITEM in 1990s and was the centre of several killings and disappearances.

(01/037) Prisoners Suffering…

According to the news appeared on the press on 7 January 2014, Ferhat Dalkavuk serving for his imprisonment term since 2006 in Edirne F-type Prison reportedly had cerebral bleeding and then diabetic coma. He is suffering from diabetes since then.

(01/038) Lawyers on Trial…

Slivri Ciriminal Court of First Instance No 2 continued to hear the case against 10 lawyers launched under the Article 277 of TPC. The case was launched after they objected and criticised the court during so-called Sledge Hammer Coup d’États Plan Trails for not allowing them to speak during the 2 separate hearings in 2012. The lawyer Ümit Kocasakal presented his defence. The court adjourned the hearing to 254 February 2014 for preparation of prosecutor’s opinion on the accusations.

(01/039) Gezi Park Trials…

On 7 January 2014, Uşak Ciriminal Court of First Instance No 3 continued to hear the case against H.D.K. (17), K.E.K. (17) and M.B. (17) who were members of Turkish Youth Union (TGB) on charges of attenting demonstrations staged in Uşak to support Gezi Park demonstrations.

The indictment wants the defendant to be sentenced to terms of imprisonment. The defendants testified at the hearing and the court acquitted the defendants on the grounds that the elements of crime were not materialised.

(01/040) KCK Trial…

On 2 January 2013, Diyarbakir Heavy Penal Court No 6 announced its verdict against 43 persons among 55 defendants who were on trial on charges of “being member of KCK/TM”. The case against 12 defendants including Şırnak MP Faysal Sarıyıldız was separated on the grounds they did not attend the hearing for having medical reports. 5 of the defendants were under arrest.

On 7 January 2014, the court continued to hear the case. Şırnak MP Faysal Sarıyıldız was released by the court in accordance with a recent decision by Constitutional Court. But the lawyers of Sarıyıldız demanded recusation on the grounds that the court did not follow the decision by Constitutional Court at the previous hearing. The court rejected the demand for not applying within 7 days and sent the file to Diyarbakir Heavy Penal Court No 4 for further investigation. The court adjourned the hearing to a later date.

(01/041) House Raids…

On 7 January 2014, the police conducted house raids in Mardin on the allegatons of “attending the demonstrations to protest in the wall on the border” and detained 5 children. 3 of the children were arrested by the court on the grounds of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(01/042) House Raids…

On 7 January 2014, Anti-Terror units raided a house in Mersin and detained 4 children. The reason of the raid was not announced.

(01/043) House Raids…

On 7 January 2014, Anti-Terror units raided a house in Hakkari and detained 4 persons on the allegations of “recruiting persons for an illegal organisation”.

(01/044) Workers Wounded…

14 workers were wounded when the vehicle transporting them to the factory had an accident on 8 January 2014 in Çorlu district of Tekirdağ.

(01/045) Police Vehicle Hit Person…

On 8 January 2014, a person died in the hospital after having been hit by a a high speed police vehicle.

(01/046) Wounded Person…

On 8 January 2014, K.S. who was reportedly searched on charges of seizure was heavily wounded when the police opened fire on TEM high road against the car he was in when he tried to escape. He was hospitalised to Şişli Etfal Hospital. K.S. allegedly opened fire against the officers.

(01/047) Convicted Person…

The court case against Müslüm Özer, father of Hasan Özer who was found hanged himself on 6 October 2011 in Kandıra F-type Prison, reportedly ended on 11 November 2013. Müslüm Özer was on trial on charges of “insulting guards” for the words he used when he saw his son before the incident with the traces of torture.

Kandıra Criminal Court of Peace sentenced Müslüm Özer to 2 years 1 month and 17 days’ imprisonment.

(01/048) Convicted Persons…

Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 6 continued on 8 January 2014 to hear the case launched against 7 persons on charges of throwing molotov cocktails to a sports field and causing material damage on 8 October 2009.

The court sentenced the defendants to 15 years and 8 months’ imprisonment for “committing crime in the name of an illegal organisation though not being a member”, “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”, “using hazardous materials without permission”, and “damaging property”.

(01/049) Suspicious Death…

Halil İbrahim Erçek (20), who was serving obligatory military service in Bayraktar border station nearby Eznavir (Sınırtepe) village close to Nusaybin-Qamişlo border in Mardin, allgedly tried to commit suicide by using his G3 rifle on 6 January 2014.

(01/050) Hate Crime in Niğde…

On 5 January 2014, unknown persons throw tear gas into an apartment in Niğde which was used as sanctuary by Christian Iranian refugees. 2 persons were hospitalised due to tear gas.

(01/051) Workers Died…

On 8 January 2014, 2 dustmen died in Çorlu district of Tekirdağ when a car hit them while they were cleaning roadside. The driver reportedly slept on the wheel.

(01/052) Workers Died…

On 8 January 2014, 20 handicapped workers were wounded in Kocaeli when the when the vehicle transferring them had an accident.

(01/053) Killing by Unknown Assassin…

Temporary village guard Hasan Caner (44), who was shot in Şırnak on 10 January2014 in front of his house by unknown persons and heavily wounded, died in the hospital.

(01/054) Koçağıllı and Kuşkonar Massacres Investigation…

According the news appeared on the press on 12 January 2014, Public Prosecutor in Diyarbakır decided to open the graves of 25 persons who were among 38 persons bombed and killed on 26 March 1994 nearby Koçağıllı and Kuşkonar villages of Şırnak and also drop their names from the register.

(01/055) Killing by Unknown Assassin Investigation…

Ankara Heavy Penal Court will start on 16 April 2014 to hear the case against 19 persons launched in connection with the killings by unknown assassins in 1990s including Savaş Buldan and his two friends in Ankara and neighbouring provinces. The indictment was accepted by the court on 3 January 2014.

(01/056) Mehmet Reşit İşbilir and Veysel İşbilir Investigation…

According to the news appeared on the press on 9 January 2014, Yüksekova Public Prosecutor took the decision confidentiality n the investigation concerning killings of Mehmet Reşit İşbilir (35) and Veysel İşbilir (34). On 6 December 2013 the police intervened the demonstration staged in Yüksekova district of Hakkari by using real bullets, tear gas and water cannons. Mehmet Reşit İşbilir (35) and Veysel İşbilir (34) were shot to death during the incidents.

(01/057) Killing of Hrant Dink…

Osman Hayal and Zeynel Abidin against whom arrests warrants were issued by Istanbul Heavy Penal Court No 14 on 7 January 2014 in the case of Hrant Dink’s killing were arrested on 9 January 2014 and released after having testified.

(01/058) Violence in School…

According to the news appeared on the press on 10 January 2014, A.R.Ç. (13) was beaten by the principle of the school in Kadıkırı village of Çorum on the grounds he was speaking during the obligatory religious course. The ear of the student reportedly bled after the beating.

(01/059) Burdur Prison Operation Trial…

On 9 January 2014, Burdur Penal Court of First Instance No 1 continued to hear the case against 61 persons launched with the demand of payment for the damages occurred in the prison during the operation conducted against the prisoners in Burdur Prison on 5 July 2000. According to the indictment TL 29 thousand and the interest were demanded from the prisoners in total.

11 prisoners rejected to attend the hearings of their trials for security reasons in 2000. The court ordered to bring the defendants forcibly to the hearings and an operation conducted in the prison.

(01/060) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 11 January 2014, the prisoner Zülküf Gezen was beaten in the transfer vehicle on the way from Giresun E-type Prison to Sincan F-type Prison No 2.

(01/061) Pressures in Prisons…

Özlem Taşdemir, Yeliz Türkmen and Yıldız Keskin incarcerated in Gebze Women Prison were reportedly beaten on 11 January 2014 for the cockades saying “revolutionary lawyers are our honour”.

(01/062) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 11 January 2014, Yıldız Keskin and Gülay Efendioğlu incarcerated in Gebze Women Prison were given 15 days’ cell imprisonment for resisting body search. Women reportedly denied body search on the grounds soldiers involved the action. Yeliz Türkmen was also given the same sentence for shouting slogans to support the prisoners’ decision.

(01/063) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 11 January 2014, Kader Fındık incarcerated in Gebze Women Prison was reportedly beaten for denying body search by soldiers during the transfer to the court house for her trial.

(01/064) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 10 January 2014, 2 prisoners were beaten by the guards in Tekirdağ F-type Prison on 7 January 2014 for rejecting naked search.

(01/065) Web Site Blocked…

Video sharing site vimeo.com was blocked on 8 January 2014 on order of Istanbul Penal Court of Peace No 10.

(01/066) Gezi Park Trials…

Alp Altınörs, who was detained for supporting Gezi Park demonstrations in İstanbul and arrested on 18 June 2014, was released on 10 January 2014 to be tried without remand on objection of his layers. He was in Tekirdağ F-type Prison.

(01/067) Gezi Park Trials…

On 9 January 2014, Mersin Penal Court of First Instance No 8 started to hear the case against 52 persons launched on charges of attending demonstrations on 1 June 2013 to support Gezi Park demonstrations.

After the tension between the head judge and the lawyers raised, the judge asked the security forces to intervene the incident. Security forces used tear gas against the persons in court room and the court adjourned the hearing to later date.

(01/068) Demonstration Intervened…

The police intervened on 10 January 2014 the demonstration staged in Silvan district of Diyarbakır to protest in the killings of Sakine Cansız, Fidan Doğan and Leyla Şaylemez in Paris on 9 January 2013. 2 children were detained during the intervention and one of them Y.M. (16) was arrested.

(01/069) Demonstration Intervened…

The police intervened on 9 January 2014 the demonstration staged in Beyoğlu district of İstanbul to protest in the killings of Sakine Cansız, Fidan Doğan and Leyla Şaylemez in Paris on 9 January 2013. 3 women were wounded and 3 persons were detained during the incident.

(01/070) KCK Trial Concluded…

On 10 January 2014, Van Heavy Penal Court No 5 continued to hear the case against 6 persons. The case was launched after the so-called KCK operations conducted in July 2011 in Çukurca district of Hakkari. The court sentenced the defendants İmdat Derin, Suphi Çetinkaya, Sıddık Güzel, Süleyman Yorgun and Sehem Akgül to be sentenced to 6 years and 3 months’ imprisonment for “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(01/071) Persons on Trial…

On 9 January 2014, Izmir Heavy Penal Court No 12 continued to hear the case against 22 persons launched on charges of “being member of the illegal organisation Maoist Communist Party (MKP)”. 13 of the defendants are under arrest. The court adjourned the hearing to 26 February 2014.

On 13 November 2012 police conducted house raids against Democratic Rights Federation and its members in 12 provinces. 61 persons were detained during the operations and 31 of the detainees were arrested on 17 November 2012.

(01/072) Political Party Premises Attacked…

On 11 January 2014, unidentified persons attacked with stones and sticks the premises of Great Union Party (BBP) in Keçiören district of Ankara. The attack caused material damage.

(01/073) Political Party Premises Attacked…

On 11 January 2014, unidentified persons got into premises of Republican People’s Party (CHP) in Yakacık neighbourhood in Keçiören district of Ankara. Bullets were reportedly left and the flags of the party were cut and taken down.

(01/074) Work Accident in Denizli…

Emrah Öcalan (21) and Serdal Aykut (22) died, Mikail Doğan (31) was wounded when a wall collapsed on 11 January 2014 in the construction area of new Adıgüzeller dam in Güney district of Denizli.

(01/075) Work Accident in Bursa…

17 workers were intoxicated in a factory in Demirtaş Organised Industrial Zone in Bursa on 12 January 2014. The incident happened reportedly during cleaning the machines in the factory.

(01/076) Work Accident in Muğla…

Engin Uğurlu (31) died and Çağrı Demiray (23) was wounded on 12 January 2014 on Burunköy hill nearby Gümüşlük town of Bodrum district in Muğla when they were setting up a wind measurement pole.

 

14-15 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/077) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 14 January 2014, Abdülaziz Sevinç’in (23), incarcerated in Şakran (İzmir) L-type Prison, was not treated at the hospital on the grounds he rejected to be examined being handcuffed.

(01/078) Web Site Banned…

The video sharing site youtube.com could not be accessed on 13 January 2014. The call centres of service providers allegedly informed the user that the site was banned on court order.

(01/079) Demonstration Intervened…

11 members of People’s Front who staged a demonstration on 13 January 2014 in Istanbul and wanted to march to Taksim Square were detained by the police. The demonstration was organised for Berkin Elvan (15) who was shot by the police with tear gas canister in Okmeydanı quarter of Şişli district in İstanbul during Gezi Park incidents and s still in coma. He was just going to buy bread for breakfast.

(01/080) Gezi Park Trials…

Fecri Ataseven and Hasan Umut Baran, who were detained for attending Gezi Park demonstrations in Antalya and sent to Antalya L-type Prison after being arrested on 21 September 2013, were released on 13 January 2014 to be tried without remand upon objection of their lawyers.

(01/081) Gezi Park Trials…

Manisa Penal Court of First Instance No 3 started on 13 January 2014 to hear the case against 183 persons on charges attending Gezi Park demonstrations in Manisa.

The court adjourned the hearing to 17 January 2014 for the completion of the identification of the defendants.

(01/082) KCK/TM Main Case in Diyarbakır…

Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 6 continued to hear on 13 January 2014 the main KCK/TM case against 175 persons in Diyarbakır. 96 of the defendants are remanded and arrests warrants were issued for 19 defendants who are absconder.

The court rejected the recusation demand and the defendants left the court room upon the decision. The court adjourned the hearing to 16 January 2014.

(01/083) KCK/TM Main Case in İstanbul…

On 13 January 2014, İstanbul Heavy Penal Court NO 15 continued to hear the case launched against 46 media workers on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation” and “being a leading member of an illegal organisation”. The court rejected the recusation demand and adjourned the hearing to 14 January 2014. 19 of the defendants are under remanded in this case.

On 20 December 2011, the police conducted operation in 8 provinces against the premises of media including Dicle News Agency in connection with the “KCK Investigation”. 49 persons were detained during the operations. 36 persons were arrested on 24 December 2011 by Istanbul Heavy Penal Court No 9 on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

On 27 April 2012, Istanbul Heavy Penal Court No 15 accepted the indictment prepared by Public Prosecutor against 44 persons. The case was combined with another KCK case on 11 May 2012.

(01/084) Detentions and Arrests…

Police officers from Anti-Terror Branch raided a coffee house in Mersin on 12 January 2014 and detained Şahin İlhan under beatings without disclosing any reason for detention.

(01/095) Police Shot Woman…

On 13 January 2014, the nurse P.Ç. had a discussion with his police officer husband E.Ç. in hospital where she works in Balıkesir. E.Ç. reportedly shot P.Ç. at her head twice and P.Ç. was heavily wounded.

(01/096) Violance in School…

S.B. (6) was reportedly beaten by his teacher on 8 January 2014 in Mersin for calling one of his classmates “dirty”.

(01/097) Impunity in Torture Trial…

On 24 December 2013, İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 18 concluded to hear the case against 6 police officers on charges of torture and ill-treatment. The court acquitted the defendants for lack of evidence.

According to the amateur video recordings police beat Öztürk Aladağ (28) on a side street nearby Tarlabaşı Boulevard when they intervened the demonstration staged on 1 May 2009 in İstanbul for the Workers’ Day. The footages of the beating also appeared on the media.

Öztürk Aladağ filed an official complaint against the police officers. A court case was launched 5 police officers and 1 chief officer on 30 June 2010 in Bakırköy Heavy Penal Court No 12 and the case was combined with the one launched upon complaint by Naciye Kaplan who was detained the same day by dragging on the ground. But the court also decided on the same day no need to prosecute for the charges against Gökhan Özsavaş, Chief at Anti-Terror Branch.Lawyer of Öztürk Aladağ objected the decision and the decision was lifted on 3 September 2010.

(01/098) Police Officer on Trial…

According to the news appeared on the press on 14 January 2014, after the completion of the investigation an indictment was prepared against the police officer Fatih Zengin (23) who sprayed tear gas targeting Ceyda Sungur (woman in red) on 28 March 2013 during the protest in Gezi Park.

The indictment wants the police officer to be sentenced to term of imprisonment up to 2 years and dismissal from the profession on charges of “misconduct of duty” for not following the directions.

The indictment was concluded on 9 January 2014 and sent to İstanbul Penal Court of First Instance No 4.

(01/099) Lawyer on Trial…

According to the news appeared on the press on 14 January 2014, a court case was launched against lawyer Taylan Tanay (remanded in another case) on charges of “insulting public officers on duty”. According to the news gathered, 13 police officers made an official complaint against Taylan Tanay on the grounds he insulted them during a workers’ demonstration on 1 September 2012. The indictment wants Taylan Tanay to be sentenced under the Article 125 TPC.

İstanbul Penal Court of Peace No 19 informed Taylan Tanay after 4 hearings. Taylan Tanay testified at hearing on 7 October 2013 and the court adjourned the hearing to 24 April 2014.

(01/100) Freedom of Expression…

On 14 January 2014, Anadolu (İstabul) Penal Court of Peace started to hear the case against 40 writers/users of the internet siteeksisozluk.com on charges of “insulting Islamic religious values” in several comments. The investigation was started upon official complaint by Ali Emre Bukağlı.

After the identification of the defendants, the court started to take the testimonies. The court adjourned the hearing to 17 February 2014 for the completion of testimonies.

(01/101) Musician Detained…

Seyda Perinçek was detained on 14 January 2014 in Diyarbakır Airport on the grounds she has to testify in connection with an investigation. An investigation was started against Seyda Perinçek on the allegations of “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” allegedly during a concert in İzmir in March 2013.

(01/102) Gezi Park Trials…

Eskişehir Penal Court of First Instance No 2 started on 14 January 2014 to hear the case against 14 persons on charges of attending Gezi Park demonstration in Eskişehir on 2 June 2013. After the completion of the identification of the defendants, the court decided to send the file to Eskişehir Heavy Penal Court No 1 to decide to combine the case with the one against 178 persons which will be started to hear on 13 April 2014 at Eskişehir Penal Court of First Instance No 5.

(01/103) Unionists on Trial…

On 13 January 2014, Ankara Penal Court of First Instance started to hear the case against 502 persons. The hearing will continue till 17 January 2014 for the completion of the identification of the defendants.

The case was launched in connection with the demonstration staged on 28 March 2012 to protest in the “4+4+4 Education Reform” in Ankara staged by public servants union KESK. The police intervened the demonstration and dispersed the crowd. According to the news appeared on press on 26 September 2013, an investigation was started against the demonstrators.

(01/104) Demonstration Intervened…

On 14 January 2014, Abidin Sarı staged a one-person-demonstration in Istanbul to protest in the Prime Minister Recep Tayyp Erdoğan for driving his son Bilal Erdoğan around with official car. 10 police officers detained Abdullah Sarı.

(01/105) Demonstration Intervened…

The police intervened the demonstration staged by members of People’s Front (Halk Cephesi) on 14 January 2014 in front of Çağlayan Court House. The dempnstration was organised to protest n the tral of 12 persons on charges of “being member of DHKP/C”. The police detained 14 persons.

(01/106) KCK/TM Trial in Istanbul…

On 14 January 2014, İstanbul Heavy Penal Court NO 15 continued to hear the case launched against 46 media workers on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation” and “being a leading member of an illegal organisation”. The court rejected once again the recusation demand and adjourned the hearing to 3 March 2014. 19 of the defendants are under remanded in this case.

On 20 December 2011, the police conducted operation in 8 provinces against the premises of media including Dicle News Agency in connection with the “KCK Investigation”. 49 persons were detained during the operations. 36 persons were arrested on 24 December 2011 by Istanbul Heavy Penal Court No 9 on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

On 27 April 2012, Istanbul Heavy Penal Court No 15 accepted the indictment prepared by Public Prosecutor against 44 persons. The case was combined with another KCK case on 11 May 2012.

(01/107) TAYAD Members on Trial…

The case against 12 persons on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation” was continued on 14 January 2014. The court heart the plea of the defence and also recordings of the secret witness. The court decided to release 8 defendants and adjourned the hearing to a later date.

On 12 December 2012, TAYAD members gathered in front of a hospital to obtain information on the condition of Nebiha Aracı who was allegedly a member of DHKP/C and was wounded during an armed clash. The police intervened the TAYAD members and detained 18 persons. 12 persons were arrested afterwards on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(01/108) Work Accident…

A construction worker fell from the building and was heavily wounded on 14 January 2014 in Osmangazi province of Bursa due to electric shock. K.T. (24) died in the hospital.

 

 

16-24 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/109) Lice Massacre and Killing of Bahtiyar Aydın…

Diyarbakir Heavy Penal Court No 8 started on 16 January 2014 to hear the case launched in connection with the killing of Brigadier General Bahtiyar Aydın by an unidentified assassin. Gendarmerie Regional Commander Brigadier General Bahtiyar Aydın went to Lice district of Diyarbakır for investigation right after the incident which led to killing of 14 civilians and 1 soldier. He was shot to death in the garden of the gendarmerie station by an unidentified assassin.

The lawyers of the defendants Eşref Hatipoğlu and Tünay Yanardağ wanted the case to be transferred to another province for security reasons. The court adjourned the hearing to 27 March 2014 to decide on the demand.

(01/110) Uses of Tear Gas…

Nitah Tadik (11) was shot at his/her eye with a tear gas canister on 16 January 2014 in Cizre district of Şırnak.

(01/111) Judge Acquitted…

Kırıkkale Heavy Penal Court continued on 15 January 2014 to hear the case against Judges Union Chairman Ömer Faruk Eminağaoğlu. The case launched during the Gezi Park demonstrations.

The court acquitted the defendant on the grounds that he was not acting with the intention of committing crime.

(01/112) News Agency Director on Trial…

On 15 January 2014, İstanbul Penal Court of First Instance No 48 continued to hear the case against Goncagül Telek, Director of the news agency ETHA. The case launched in connection with the news released by the ETHA concerning the appointment of Sedat Selim Ay as Vice-Drector of Istanbul Security Directorate responsible with Anti-Terror Branch. Goncagül Telek testified at the hearing, the court also heard the witnesses. The court adjourned the hearing to 5 February 2014.

(01/113) Detentions and Arrests…

Ayten Ülker was detained on 16 January 2014 in Dikili dstrict of İzmir when shouted “Help, Thief” during the visit of Binali Yıldırm, AKP candidate for İzmir Mayor.

(01/114) Protesters on Trial…

On 15 January 2014, Ankara Heavy Penal Court No 13 continued to hear the case against 11 students launched in connection with the protests on 18 December 2012 when the Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Middle East Technical University to watch the launch of the Turkish satellite Göktürk-2 from China. After the testimonies of the defendants the court adjourned the hearing to a later date for the completion of documents.

(01/115) Demonstration Intervened…

Serhat Encü and Naif Encü were shot with tear gas canisters and wounded when they wanted to march to the border on 15 January 2014 in Roboski village to protest in the decision of the Military Prosecutor not to prosecute.

(01/116) KCK/TM Trial in Diayrbakır…

Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 6 continued to hear on 16 January 2014 the main KCK/TM case against 175 persons in Diyarbakır. 96 of the defendants are remanded and arrests warrants were issued for 19 defendants who are absconder.

The court rejected the recusation demand and the defendants left the court room upon the decision. The court decided the continuation of the arrests of the defendants and adjourned the hearing to 3 February 2014.

(01/117) House Raids…

The police detained 7 persons during the house raids conducted on 15 January 2014 in Kurtalan distrct of Sirt in connection with a “KCK Investigation”.

(01/118) Detentions and Arrests…

The police detained Hasan Çoban, follower of the journal Yürüyüş Dergisi, under beatings on 17 January 2014 in Kağıthane district of İstanbul.

(01/119) Work Accident in Trabzon…

On 15 January 2014, Ahmet Altun and Osman Koç died in Çukurçayır town of Trabzon when working scaffold collapsed.

(01/120) Work Accident in Antalya…

5 workers were wounded on 15 January 2014 in Belek town of Serik district in Antalya when concrete moulds collapsed in a construction area.

(01/121) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 18 January 2014, despite several diseases he is suffering due to advanced age, Ramazan Dölek’in (75) incarcerated in Mardin E-type Prison was not released. He was sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment for “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(01/122) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 18 January 2014, Engin Acar incarcerated in Isparta E-type Prison was subjected to torture and ill-treatment. He was reportedly subjected to falanga and thrown water on the grounds he objected practices in the prison. He was also put in a single-cell.

(01/123) Convicted Persons…

İstanbul Penal Court of First Instance concluded on 16 January 2014 to hear the case against 18 persons launched in connection with the protest against Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in 2008 during the academic opening of İstanbul Technical University. The court sentenced the defendants to 1 year and 3 months’ imprisonment and a fine of TL 80.

In the previous trial, the verdict against the students was quashed by the Court of Cassation.

(01/124) Demonstrations against Internet Regulations…

Several demonstrations were staged in many provinces to protest in the forthcoming restrictions on internet use. The police intervened the demonstration in Istanbul with tear gas, water cannons, truncheons and pepper balls on and nearby İstiklal Aveue. Two persons were wounded with pepper balls and 25 persons were detained. The police also prevented the demonstration in İzmir and detained 6 persons.

(01/125) Demonstration Intervened…

On 18 January 2014, 3 persons staged a demonstration in front of Istanbul Deurity Directorate to protest in the detention of 7 persons on the allegations of “having connection with DHKP-C”. The protesters alleged that they were not informed about the condition of their relatives. They were dispersed by the police by using water cannon. Since the footages of the intervention appeared on the media, the Governorate of İstanbul started an investigation against the police officers.

(01/126) House Raids…

On 19 January 2014, the houses of the Roboski village dwellers were raided in Uludere district of Şırnak. On 28 December 2011, 34 villagers were killed during bombings by war crafts. The houses of the relatives of those persons were reportedly raided and 7 persons were detained.

(01/127) House Raids…

On 15 January 2014, the police conducted house raids in Kurtalan district of Siirt and detained 7 persons. The raids were conducted in connection with a “KCK Youth Organisation Investigation”. 3 of the detainees were arrested on 17 January 2014.

(01/128) House Raids…

On 16 January 2014, Anti-Terror branch of Adana Security Directorate conducted house raids and reportedly detained 2 persons. One of the detainees was under 18-years. The reason of the raid was not announced.

(01/129) House Raids…

On 17 January 2014, Anti-Terror branch of Istanbul Security Directorate conducted house raids in Kağıthane district. 10 houses were raided and 7 persons were detained during operations in connection with a “DHKP-C Investigation”.

(01/130) Detentions and Arrests…

B.S., student in Aegean University, was detained by the police on 17 January 2014 in İzmir in connection with a previous court case.

(01/131) Work Accident…

On 19 January 2014, a landslide incident occurred in a hydroelectric plant construction area in Bucakışla district of Karaman. Hasbi Üstündağ (40) died; Mehmet Teyfik Üstündağ (39) and Nurullah Çukadar (26) were wounded in the incident.

(01/132) Work Accident…

On 18 January 2014, Metin Güvercin fell from 6th floor in a construction area when he lost his balance and died in Sur district of Diyarbakır.

(01/133) Work Accident…

On 18 January 2014, a work accident occurred in İnegöl district of Bursa. Metin Yıldırım was heavily wounded when he fell in a construction area due to lack of illumination.

(01/134) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 20 January 2014, 4 prisoners incarcerated in Şakran (İzmir) T-type Prison were not given their medications. The prisoners suffering from epilepsy were reporledly forced to beg on knees for the medications.

(01/135) KCK Trial in Şırnak…

Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 9 continued on 20 January to hear the case against 12 persons launched in connection with the “KCK Investigation” started the year 2013 in Şırnak. The court decided to release all the defendants and adjourned the hearing to alter date.

(01/136) Work Accident…

The worker Mehmet Marat died during the explosion due to gas entrapment in the ship Tibil İstanbul on 20 January 2014. 4 workers were also wounded during the incident. Tibil İstanbul was anchored nearby Tuzla Ship-building Yard in Pendik district of İstanbul.

(01/137) Killings by Unidentified Assassins…

The investigation concerning the killings of Mehmet Emin Bingöl, Mahmut Acar, Ali Can Öner and Yakup Tetik by Unidentified Assassins on 6 November 1993 in Kızılağaç village of Mardin was reportedly concluded accorording to the news appeared on the press on 21 January 2014. On 21 January 2014, Van Heavy Penal Court No 6 started to hear the case against Naim Kurt who was the Commander of Muş Gendarmerie when the incident happened. The defendant testified at the hearing to the effect that he was not on the crime scene on the day of the incident. The court adjourned the hearing to 24 March 2014.

(01/138) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 21 January 2014, Adnan Yalçın incarcerated in Diyarbakır D-type Prison and suffering from colon cancer was taken to prisoners’ room after having an operation.

(01/139) Pressures in Prison…

According to the news appeared on the press on 21 January 2014, Şemsettin Kargılı incarcerated in Diyarbakır D-type Prison and suffering from kidney cancer did not have an operation for vital risk.

(01/140) Editor-in-Chief on Trial…

A court case was reportedly launched against Hafize Kazcı, Editor-in-Chief of the daily Sol, in connection with the news appeared on the paper on 11 and 12 September 2013 concerning Gezi Park demonstrations. The indictment wants Hafize Kazcı to be sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment on charges of “praising crime and criminals” and “provoking people to hatred and enmity”. Istanbul Penal Court of First Instance will start to hear the case.

(01/141) Gezi Park Trials…

On 21 January 2014, Çanakkale Penal Court of First Instance No 1 continued to hear the case against B.T.İ. (13) launched on charges of attending Gezi Park demonstrations on 3 June 2013 in Çanakkale.

Though B.T.İ. did not reach the age of criminal responsibility, the case was launched and the indictment wanted him to be sentenced to a term of imprisonment. The court acquitted the B.T.İ. for the same reason.

(01/142) Gezi Park Trials…

On 21 January 2014, Bursa Penal Court of First Instance No 5 continued to hear the case against 55 persons launched on charges of attending Gezi Park demonstrations on 2 June 2013 in Bursa. After the testimonies of the defendants were taken, the court adjourned the hearing to 30 April 2014.

(01/143) Demonstration Prevented…

2 members of People’s Front (Halk Cephesi) who staged a demonstration on 21 January 2014 in Istanbul and wanted to march to Taksim Square were detained by the police. The demonstration was organised for Berkin Elvan (15) who was shot by the police with tear gas canister in Okmeydanı quarter of Şişli district in İstanbul during Gezi Park incidents and s still in coma. He was just going to buy bread for breakfast.

(01/134) 30 Mart 2014 Yerel Yönetimler Genel Seçimi Dönemi İhlalleri…

On 22 January 2014, Osman Nuri Gülaçar, AKP candidate for Van Municipality, had a dispute with people during election campaign in Van. The tension reportedly arose when he said “we are not afraid of anyone”. People attacked the candidate with stones and Osman Nuri Gülaçar sheltered in the AKP premises. The police and security guards of Osman Nuri Gülaçar reportedly fired against the protesting group.

(01/135) 30 March 2014 Local Elections…

The car of Safure Güneş, BDP candidate for Co-Mayor in Muradiye district of Van, was reportedly attacked unidentified people on 21 January 2014. The tires of the car were damaged during the attack.

The election office of BDP in Nizip district of Gaziantep was also attacked with stones the same day. The attack caused material damage.

(01/136) Closure Demand for Association…

On 22 January 2014, Batman Penal Court of First Instance started to hear the case against MEYA-DER (Mesopotamia Support and Solidarity with the Families of Disappeared People Association) and DA-DER (Religious Scholars Association) on charges of “having relation with an illegal organisation”. The indictment wants the closure of both associations.

The board members of the associations testified at the hearing in Kurdish and the court adjourned the hearing to 30 May 2014.

(01/137) Extrajudicial Killing…

Fayat Arslan died and Yusuf Karaçizmeli was heavily wounded on 23 January 2014 nearby İnanlı village in Kilis when military forces opened fire against them on the grounds they did not obey stop warning. They were reportedly bringing tea from Syria to Turkey.

(01/138) Explosion…

Yahya Ulğaç (12) was wounded on 23 January 2014 nearby Yağızoymak village in Güçlükonak district of Şırnak when a material he found exploded.

(01/139) Case Concluded…

On 23 January 2014 the case against 5 defendants was concluded in Diyarbakır. The case was launched n connection with killing of 4 persons on 4 November 2009 in Ergani district of Diyarbakır when the village guard İsmail Akyol and Abbas Akyol opened fire against a vehicle. 1st Chamber of the Court of Cassation quashed the previous verdict on the grounds the court did take into account the provisions on incitement. The decision of the Court Cassation was read at the hearing and the final defence was taken. The court sentenced the remanded defendants İsmail Akol, Abbas Akol and İlyas Akol to life imprisonment twice and 48 years’ imprisonment. Genco Kuzu and Cengiz Akol were sentenced to 52 years’ imprisonment.

(01/140) Pressures in Prisons…

3 children incarcerated in Sincan Juvenile Prison in Ankara were reportedly beaten by the guards in Sincan Court House where they were taken for a trial. The children reportedly demanded the handcuffs of a child to be loosen on the grounds he/she had an operation recently.

(01/141) Gezi Park Trials…

The Public Prosecutor in İstanbul reportedly finalised the indictment against M.Y. (16) who attended Gezi Park demonstrations in İstanbul on 2 June 2013 and was detained under beatings. Istanbul Juvenile Court No 3 will start to hear the case on 6 February 2014.

(01/142) 2nd DHKP/C Investigation…

On 23 January 2014, İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 16 started to hear the case against 56 persons, mostly members of public servants’ union KESK, on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation” and “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”. 29 of the defendants are under arrest. After the identification of the defendants, the summary of the indictment was read. The court adjourned the hearing to 24 January 2014.

The police conducted operations on 18 January 2013 in connection with a “DHKP/C Investigation” and detained 81 persons. 56 of the detainees were arrested subsequently.

(01/143) House Raids…

Security forces conducted house raids on 23 January 2014 in connection with a “DHKP/C Investigation”. 3 persons in Siirt and 2 persons in Iğdır were detained.

(01/144) Local Elections…

On 23 January 2014, a stun grenade was thrown to the house of Osman Nuri Gülaçar, AKP candidate for Van Municipality. The attack caused material damage.

(01/145) Workers Died & Wounded…

On 22 January 2014, a transportation vehicle had an accident in Çerkezköy district of Tekirdağ and 25 workers were reportedly wounded.

(01/146) Work Accident…

Abdurrahman Genç (48) was heavily wounded on 23 January 2014 in Besni district of Adıyaman. He was reportedly fell from the 2nd floor of a school construction.

(01/147) Work Accident…

32 workers were hospitalised on 23 January 2014 after having been exposed to the cleaning agents they were using in a jean factory in Kayseri.

 

 

25-28 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/148) Extrajudicial Killing Attempt …

A.Ö. (23) was shot and wounded by the police on 24 January 2014 nearby Acarlar town in İncirliova district of Aydın. A.Ö. (23) reportedly did not obey the stop warning on a traffic control point.

(01/149) Musa Anter Case…

On 24 January, Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court no 7 continued to hear the case against 4 defendants launched in connection with killing of writer Musa Anter on 20 September 1992. A document sent by the MİT (National Intelligence Service) was read at the hearing. According to the document, Mahmut Yıldırım’s demand for consent to assassin Şemdin Sakık was denied by MİT. The court adjourned the hearing to ask for the archives of both MİT and JİTEM (Gendarmerie Intelligence Service) for the years 1991 to 1993.

(01/150) Unionist Beaten by the Police…

Ali İhsan Öztürk, President of Türk-Eğitim-Sen (union for public servants working in education sector) for Kayseri branch, was reportedly sprayed pepper gas and beaten on 25 January 2014 for protesting in the closure of several roads for the visit of Minister of Health Mehmet Müezzinoğlu.

(01/151) Condition of Prisoner…

Feride Abruz incarcerated in Karataş (Adana) Women Prison was reportedly hospitalised on 20 January 2014 and taken into intensive care. According to the news, she was suffering from breast cancer.

(01/152) Condition of Prisoner…

According to the news appeared on the press on 26 January 2014, Major General Recep Rıfkı Durusoy incarcerated Silivri L-type Prison in İstanbul lost one of his kidneys for having cancer. He is facing the danger of losing the second one for not being given diet meals.

(01/153) Human Rights Defenders Acquitted…

On 26 January 2014, İstanbul Penal court of First Instance No 53 concluded to hear the case against 6 members of HRA. The court acquitted all the defendants. The case was launched after they made a press announcement and were detained in front of Prime Minister’s Office in Dolmabahçe Palace on 14 November 2012.

(01/154) Web Site Banned…

On 24 January 2014, sound and music sharing site soundcloud.com was banned on order of court in charge with cases related to Article 10 of Anti-Terror Law. The decision was taken on 16 January 2014.

(01/155) Web Site Banned…

On 26 January 2014, access to the news portal vagus.tv was prevented on decision of Public Prosecutor in İstanbul on 16 January 2014.

(01/156) Demonstration Intervened…

On 24 January 2014, 10 students were detained under beating when they wanted to stage a protest action in front of Ankara National Education Directorate for Berkin Elvan who was shot to head during Gezi demonstrations in İstanbul when he was going to buy bread for breakfast. Berkin Elvan is still in coma.

(01/157) Demonstration Intervened…

On 24 January 2014, the ESP members Fırat Kınalı and Bersu Eroğlu were detained by the police when they tried to hand a banner on Anadolu Court House in İstanbul to protest in the Anti-Terror Law and special heavy penal courts.

(01/158) Persons on Trial…

On 24 January 2014, Ankara Penal Court of First Instance No 16 continued to hear the case against 35 persons launched after the investigation started in connection with the demonstration staged on 16 June 2013 to commemorate of Ethem Sarısülük was killed by the police officer Ahmet Şahbaz during Gezi Park demonstrations in Ankara. The court adjourned the hearing for the completion of testimonies.

(01/159) Local Elections…

On 26 January 2014, MHP member Cengiz Akyıldız (48) was shot during opening of election office of MHP in Esenyurt district of Istanbul. According to the news appeared on the media, unidentified persons opened fire right after a a quarrel during the opening. Cengiz Akyıldız died in the hospital. 7 persons were wounded during the incident.

Unidentified persons damaged the properties in the BBP premises in Gaziantep on the night of 24 January 2014. On 22 and 24 January 2014, the premise of BDP in Çerkezköy district of Tekirdağ was attacked with stones. The attack caused material damage.

(01/160) KCK Trial in İzmir…

On 24 January, İzmir Heavy Penal Court No 10 concluded to hear the case against 21 persons launched on charges of the illegal organisation “being member of Patriotic Democratic Youth Movement”.

The court sentenced 19 defendants to a term of imprisonment 215 years and 7 months in total. 2 defendants were acquitted.

(01/161) KCK Trial in Batman…

On 24 January 2014, Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 9 continued to hear the case against 38 persons. The case was launched after the operations conducted on 8 December 2012 in Batman in connection with “KCK Investigation”. 15 of the defendants are under arrest in this trial.

The evidences against the defendants were read at the hearing. The court decided to release Hamza Ayiş and Ebuzet Alay and adjourned the hearing to 2 April 2014.

(01/162) Hate Crime…

On 20 January 2014, the transsexuals Ç.D., Ş.E. and G.A. were beaten and robbed in Ankara by Seyit Şahin and Ömer Durkan who introduced themselves as police officers.

(01/163) Work Accident…

On 24 January 2014, 2 workers were wounded during a fire in a furniture work shop in İstanbul.

(01/164) Work Accident…

Hasan Kalkan (25) died on 26 January 2014 in Konya due to electric shock when he was filling the machines with water in a milk factory.

(01/165) Zonguldak’ta İş Kazası…

Fatih Akyüz (31) was wounded on 27 January 2014 in Zonguldak when he got trapped under debris consisting of coal and stones.

(01/166) Pressures in Prisons…

Family of Devrim Erdem incarcerated in Kepsut (Balıkesir) L-type Prison announced on 27 January 2014 that 9 prisoners including Devrim Erdem were kept for 3 days in isolation cell. The finger of Devrim Erdem was reportedly broken due to torture he was subjected.

(01/167) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 28 January 2014, the daily Radikal was not given to the prisoner Ahmet Yeter who was serving in Gaziantep E-type Prison and sentenced to solitary confinement on 12 July 2013. The incident appeared on Radikal and the prison administration took the decision that the paper may weaken the order and security of the prison.

(01/168) Pressures in Prisons…

Family of Gökhan Topçu incarcerated in Isparta E-type Prison announced on 27 January 2014 that Gökhan Topçu was subjected to torture and ill-treatment in the prison.

(01/169) Unionists on Trial…

Ankara Penal Court of First Instance No 17 continued to hear the case against 502 persons launched in connection with a demonstration staged on 28 March 2012 by public servants union KESK to protest in the new regulations concerning education system and unions in public sector. The police intervened and dispersed the demonstrations by using water cannons and tear gas. Afer the identification of the defendants, the court adjourned the hearing to 7 April 2014 for the completion of deficient documents.

(01/170) Demonstration Intervened…

6 persons were detained under beatings during a demonstration on 27 January 2014 in Istanbul. The demonstration was organised for Berkin Elvan (15) who was shot by the police with tear gas canister in Okmeydanı quarter of Şişli district in İstanbul during Gezi Park incidents and is still in coma. He was just going to buy bread for breakfast.

(01/171) Local Elections…

An armed attack was organised on 28 January 2014 against the Şişli Municipality building in Esentepe neighbourhood in İstanbul by unidentified persons. The attack caused material damage.

The car of Zeki Ertunç, AKP Chairman for Çukurca district in Hakkari, was thrown Molotov cocktail and set to fire by unidentified persons.

(01/172) DHKP/C Trial…

On 27 January 2014, İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 16 continued to hear the case against 56 persons, mostly members of public servants’ union KESK, on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation” and “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”. 32 of the defendants were under arrest. The court decided to release 24 defendants to be tried without remand. The court adjourned the hearing to 6 May 2014.

The police conducted operations on 18 January 2013 in connection with a “DHKP/C Investigation” and detained 81 persons. 56 of the detainees were arrested subsequently.

(01/173) Hate Crime…

According to the news appeared on the press, D.G. (24) was beaten and threatened to death in Mardin by his relatives for changing his religion.

 

 

29 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/174) Massacre of Lice and the Case on the Bahtiyar Aydın Killing…

On the day when the case related to the killing of General Bahtiyar Aydın by a bullet fired from an unknown person at Lice (Diyarbakır) Gendarmerie Station where the general had gone after the killing 14 persons and one soldier on 22 October 1993 was about to run out of time, Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No. 8 accepted the indictment on the case. At the hearing of 16 January 2014 the defence had demanded to move the case to another town because of security. On 28 January 20014 the Criminal Court of Cassation No. 5 decided that the hearings should continue in Eskişehir.

(01/175) Case opened on violations as a result of extreme use of force of the uniformed forces…

On 5 September 2012 it was learned that Ferhat Özcan (24) was beaten by police officer Hakan Özdemir after a quarrel on the parking slot in Şirinevler Quarter of Bahçelievler District of İstanbul Province on 11 August 2012. Ferhat Özcan had a cerebral operation, reported on 5 September 2012. On complaint of Ferhat Özcan Hakan Özdemir had claimed in his testimony in the prosecutor’s office that “Ferhat Özcan pushed me and I fell down and then he punched me. He also attempted to take my firearm that I dropped and threatened me with death and I could only hit him once and he hit his head to somewhere that I do not remember. Maybe to the pavement… I did not hit him with my firearm”.

On 20 January 2014 the case against Hakan Özdemir, his father and Hasret Kum (from the same village) continued at Bakırköy Heavy Penal Court 14. The court adjourned the case for a completion of the missing parts in the file.

(01/176) Pressure in Prison…

On 28 January 2014 it was learned that Sıddık Aydın imprisoned in Zile (Tokat) M Type Prison for membership of the PKK is suffering from lung insufficiency and that he cannot see his family since 8 months because of the long distance home.

(01/177) Detained Fans…

Following the match between Fenerbahçe and Konyaspor in Istanbul on 27 January 2014 eight people were detained on the grounds that they had shouted slogans against the government.

(01/178) Violation related to the local elections on 30 March 2014…

During the introduction of the candidate for the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) in Dikili district, Izmir, on 28 January 2014 an extreme rightist attacked the group and injured Mehmet Arkan.

(01/179) House raids in Mardin…

On 27 January 2014 houses in Marine (Eskihisar) village between Dargeçit and Nusaybin district in Mardin province were raided. Six people were detained for an unknown reason.

 

30-31 January 2014 Daily Human Rights Report

(01/180) Disappeared Persons…

5th Penal Chamber at the Court of Cassation decided in the appeal of the lawyers of Major General Yavuz Ertürk for the transfer of the case against him to another city for security reason. The court ruled the transfer of the case to Ankara. On 27 December 2014, the lawyers demanded the transfer at the hearing in Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 7.

The case was launched on 24 October 2017 in connection with the disappearances of 11villagers after detention on 9 October 1993 nearby Keper hamlet of Alacakaya village in Kulp district of Diyarbakır. Major General Yavuz Ertürk has been the commander of Bolu 2nd Commando Brigade which has been conducting operations in the region. The investigation concerning the disappearances has been started in 2006.

(01/181) Uses of Tear Gas…

According to the news appeared on the press on 29 January 2014, Mehmet İstif (36) who attended the Gezi Park demonstrations in Mersin on 20 June 2014 and subjected to tear gas got tongue cancer. He was sprayed tear gas from close distance. He had an operation and lost ¼ of his tongue. He is also under risk of losing his speaking ability.

(01/182) Prosecutor on Trial…

5th Penal Chamber at the Court of Cassation started on 29 January 2014 to hear the case against Ali İhsan Demirel, who was previously Public Prosecutor in Eyüp, on charges of “misconduct of duty” for not starting an investigation after the so-called Return to Life operation in Bayrampaşa (İstanbul) Prison on 19 December 2000.

The court adjourned the hearing to 9 May 2014 on the grounds that the defendant did not appear at the hearing.

(01/183) House Raids…

On 27 January 2014, the police conducted house raids in Dargeçit district of Mardin and detained 6 persons. 5 of the detainees were arrested on 29 January 2014 on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation”

(01/184) Demonstration Intervened…

On 29 January 2014 in Dargeçit district of Mardin, the police intervened the demonstration staged to protest in the recent detentions. The police used tear gas and dispersed the crowd. One person was wounded and 2 persons were detained during the incident.

(01/185) house Raids…

Security Forces conducted house raids in Van on 30 January 2014. 12 children were reportedly detained during the raids. Te reason of the raids was not announced.

(01/186) Detentions and Arrests…

Bayram Çellik was detained on 29 January 2014 in Hizan district of Bitlis on the allegations of “aiding and abetting an illegal organisation”.

(01/187) Cem Aygün Case…

Ankara Heavy Penal Court No 4 continued on 30 January 2014 to hear the case against the police officer Fatih Yılmaz on charges of killing Cem Aygün (24). On 30 August 2012, Cem Aygün allegedly did not obey the stop warning in Keçiören district of Ankara and the police officer shot him to death.

The expert report was read at the hearing. According to the report there were no sufficient evidences to determine how Cem Aygün’ün was killed. The court adjourned the hearing to 6 March 2014 on the grounds the lawyers wanted to examine the expert report.

(01/188) Impunity for Excessive Use of Force…

According to the news appeared on the press on 30 January 2014, Isparta Heavy Penal Court No 1 rejected the objection to the decision in the case launched against police officer B.T. who heavily wounded S.T. (14) by using his rifle butt during a demonstration in Hakkari on 23 April 2009.

Isparta Penal Court of First Instance concluded to hear the case in 2011 and sentenced B.T. to 6 months and 7 days’ imprisonment for reckless homicide. The sentence was suspended for good conduct of the defendant who attended only one of the hearings.

The lawyers appealed to the Court of Cassation and 12th Penal Chamber rejected the appeal on the grounds that the sentence was under 2 years and was not subject to appeal. Upon this decision the file was sent to Isparta Heavy Penal Court No 1 as Superior Court.

(01/189) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared on the press on 30 January 2014, the prisoners in Karataş (Adana) Women Prison were beaten by the guards for objecting ward searches.

(01/190) Patient in Prison…

According to the news appeared on the press on 30 January 2014, Meryem Abi who is suffering from Behçet disease in Şakran (İzmir) L-type Prison and was given medical reports from several hospitals that she shall not be kept in prison was not released.

(01/191) Gezi Park Trials…

According to the news appeared on the press on 30 January 2014, the public prosecutor completed the indictment against 5 persons who attended Gezi Park demonstrations in Tunceli and were arrested after the demonstrations.

The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced to terms of imprisonment. Malatya Heavy Penal Court No 4 will start to hear the case.

(01/192) KCK/TM Main Case in Istanbul…

On 30 January 2014, İstanbul Heavy Penal Court continued to hear the case launched against 205 persons in connection with a KCK Investigation. 77 of the defendants are remanded and 23 defendants are on the run in this case.

Due to a verbal dispute between the defendants and the judges, the court adjourned the hearing to 3 April 2014.

(01/193) Local Elections…

On 30 January 2014, a quarrel occurred between the supporters of political parties BDP and HÜDA-PAR in Lice district of Diyarbakır. The parties attacked each other with guns, sticks, choppers andf cranks, 16 persons were wounded during the incident.

(01/194) House Raids…

On 30 January 2014, security forces raided several houses in Ağrı and also in Doğubayazıt distict and detained 3 persons. The reason of the raids was not announced.

(01/195) Suspicious Soldier Death…

Erhan Erdem (27) who was on compulsory military service in Reşadiye district of Tokat was shot to death on 30 January 2014 just 3 days before his discharge by his commander when he accidently fired.

(01/196) Suspicious Soldier Death…

Sergeant Mustafa Ünlü (38) who was on duty in 57th Gunner Brigade in Bornova district of İzmir was reportedly shot to death on 31 January 2014 when a G-3 rifle accidently fired during cleaning session of guns.