MESOP DOCUMENTATION : Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (HRFT/TIHV) – Daily Human Rights Reports – JULY 2016

01-11 July 2016 Daily Human Rights Report – (07/001) Persons Killed during Curfews…

The body of a male was found on 10 July 2016 in Yeni Mahalle quarter of İdil district in Şırnak where the military operations were completed on 31 March 2016.

According to the news appeared in the press on 6 July 2016, bodies of 2 males and 1 female were found in 2 separate houses in Hasırlı quarter on Sur district in Diyarbakır where curfew was imposed on 2 December 2015 and blockade was on-going after the completion of military operations in the district.

(07/002) House Raid in Van…

Security Forces conducted a house raid on 10 July 2016 in Xacort quarter of İpekyolu district in Van on the allegations that HPG militants took shelter in the house. An unidentified female was killed and 4 persons were reportedly detained during the raid.

(07/003) Explosion in Ağrı…

Fettah Erdem (15) died when he stepped on a military land mine on 9 July 2016 in Kanîspî hamlet of Taşkesen village in Diyadin district of Ağrı. S.Ç. (16-male) was heavily wounded during the explosion.

(07/004) Operations and Attacks in the Southeast…

1 militant was killed during an armed clash on 1 July 2016 in the rural area of Lice district in Diyarbakır.

4 militants were killed and 2 soldiers were wounded during an armed clash on 1 July 2016 in the rural area of Sarıkamış district in Kars.

3 civilians were wounded when a bomb exploded on 3 July 2016 during the passage of a police vehicle in Kızıltepe district of Mardin.

Security Directorate, Gendarmerie Command and 8th Commando Tactical Base were attacked with rocket launchers and long-barelled weaponson 3 July 2016 in Beytüşşebap district of Şırnak. 1 non-commissioned officer and 3 militants were killed during the clashes. Governorate imposed curfew in the district following the attacks.

2 militants were killed and 2 soldiers were wounded during an armed clash that broke out after an attack against a military vehicle on 2 July 2016 in Başkale district of Van.

5 militants were allegedly killed during an armed clash on 4 July 2016 in the city centre of Şırnak.

3 militants were killed and 1 soldier was wounded during an armed clash on 4 July 2016 in the rural area of Karakoyunlu district in Iğdır.

1 temporary village guard was shot to death on 6 July 2016 on Hakkari-Van road.

17 militants were allegedly killed during the operations conducted on 8 July 2016 in the rural area of Şemdinli district in Hakkari.

2 soldiers and 1 civilian were killed when Cevizlik Gendarmerie Station was attack with a car bomb on 9 July 2016 in Artuklu district of Mardin. 12 soldiers, 1 temporary village guard, and 13 civilians were also wounded during the attack.

1 soldier and 1 temporary village guard were killed when Pay Gendarmerie Station was attack with a car bomb on 9 July 2016 in Erciş district of Van. 10 soldiers and 5 temporary village guard were also wounded during the attack.

A civilian vehicle was shot with a howitzer during an armed attack on 9 July 2016 against the Gendarmerie Command in Çukurca district of Hakkari. The child Viyan Kanat and another unidentified child were killed, 4 civilians including 2 children were wounded.

2 militants were reportedly killed during an armed clash on 9 July 2016 nearby Kovancık village of Ağrı.

5 soldiers were killed when a bomb exploded on 10 July 2016 during the passage of a military vehicle in Aktütün region of Şemdinli district in Hakkari.

4 militants were killed and 6 police officers were wounded during an armed clash that broke out on 10 July 2016 in the centre of Kızıltepe district in Mardin.

(07/005) Extra-judicial Killing in Kilis…

Mamo Hemo Hisên from Afrin canton of Rojava was reportedly killed when military troops opened fire on 5 July 2016 on the grounds that he was too close to the border. Mamo Hemo Hisên was the 3rd Rojavan killed last one week on border.

(07/006) Suspicious Private Deaths in Şanlıurfa and Şırnak…

Murat Gözal who was serving for compulsory military service in Harran Gendarmerie Command in Şanlıurfa died on 1 July 2016 in the hospital. He was allegedly shot by another private by mistake on 20 June 2016. He was registered to Mardin.

Muhammet Duman who was serving for compulsory military service in Çakırsöğüt Gendarmerie Command in Şırnak was allegedly shot to death on 1 July 2016 by another private by mistake. He was registered to Erzurum.

(07/007) Death in Prison…

Ceyhun S. incarcerated in Edirne F-type Prison was allegedly committed suicide on 6 July 2016 by hanging himself in his cell.

(07/008) Pressures in Prisons…

According to the news appeared in the press on 8 July 2016, mentally retarded M.Y. who was arrested for stealing money from a shop was subjected to torture and ill-treatment by his cell-mates in Silivri L-type Prison. He was reportedly beaten and burnt with hot water for not doing his part in the cell. He was also not given his medication and had epilepsy attack.

(07/009) Former MP on Trial…

Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 5 started on 30 June 2016 to hear the case against former MP and KJA Spokesperson Ayla Akat launched on charges of “praising crime and criminals”. The case was launched for taking part in the funerals of 2 HPG militants who were also relatives of Ayla Akat.

After the identification and first testimony of the defendant, the court adjourned the hearing to 17 November 2016.

(07/010) Investigations, Detentions and Arrests on the Allegations of Insulting State President…

Construction worker Ş.K. was arrested on 2 July 2016 in Manavgat district of Antalya on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media.

(07/011) Ban on Meetings and Gatherings in Mardin…

Governorate of Mardin made an announcement on 1 July 2016 and banned all the actions, activities, demonstrations, public statements, and meetings in all district and provincial centres during the month July.

(07/012) Political Party Premises Attacked in İstanbul…

On 1 July 2016, unidentified persons attacked the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) premises in Ceyhan district of Adana. The attack caused material damage.

(07/013) Political Party Premises Attacked in İzmir…

1 chid was wounded when a bomb attack was organised on 8 July 2016 against the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) premises in Menderes district of İzmir.

(07/014) Headmen Dismissed from Duty…

3 headmen in Bahçesaray district of Van province were dismissed from duty on 10 July 2016 by Bahçesaray Sub-governorate. Headman for central quarter Cemal Taygun, headman of Güneyyamaç quarter Muhtarı Zekeriya İstemiş and headman of Elmayaka quarter Muhtarı Şevket Şahin were reportedly dismissed from duty on the grounds that a court case was launched against them on the allegations of “violating the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations”. 3 headmen were previously dismissed from duty in Van for the same reason.

(07/015) Detentions and Arrests…

Security Forces prevented a group of persons who wanted to reach Lice district of Diyarbakır on 30 June 2016 to protest in the on-going operations in the district. Security Forces intervened the group and detained several villagers. 2 detainees were reportedly arrested on 2 and 3 July 216 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

Dicle News Agency (DİHA) correspondent Şerife Oruç, Emrullah Oruç and Muzafer Tunç who were detained during a road control on 3 July 2016 on Diyarbakır-Batman road were arrested on 5 July 216 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

3 persons who were among 4 persons detained during a road control in Bismil district of Diyarbakır and Murat Aşkan who was detained in Dargeçit district of Mardin were arrested on 2 July 216 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

Ali Nesin who was arrested on 20 June 2016 for being editor-in-chief on watch of the daily Özgür Gündem was released on 1 July 2016 by İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 14 to be tried without remand.

Dicle News Agency (DİHA) correspondent Özgür Paksoy was detained during a road control on 6 July 2016 in İdil district of Şırnak.

Ali Kaya, Hürşit Palanlı and Turan Öğüç who were detained in Kiğı district of Bingöl were arrested on 6 July 2016 on the allegations of “aiding an illegal organisation”.

 

 

  • 12-15 July 2016 Daily Human Rights Report

(07/016) Persons on Trial in Mersin…

Mersin Penal Court of First Instance No 14 started on 13 July 2016 to hear the case against 21 persons including Secretary General of the federation of public servants’ unions KESK Hasan Toprak launched in connection with a public statement in front of the Mersin Court House.

The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced for “violating the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations”. After the identification and testimonies of the present defendants, the court adjourned the hearing to 31 October 2016 for the completion of testimonies.

(07/017) Persons on Trial in İzmir…

İzmir Heavy Penal Court No 2 started on 13 July 2016 to hear the case against 29 persons including HRFT board member Coşkun Üsterci. The defendants were detained following a public statement by the İzmir Peace Block on 8 February 2016 concerning the massacre in Cizre and were released after a while. The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced for “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” and “violating the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations”.

After the identification and first testimonies of the defendants, the court adjourned the hearing to 24 November 2016 for the completion of deficient documents.

(07/018) Co-Mayor Dismissed from Duty…

Co-Mayors for Mazıdağı district of Mardin province Necla Yıldırım and Ali Özkan were dismissed from duty upon decision of the Ministry of Interior Affairs dating 14 July 2016.

(07/019) Persons on Trial on the Allegations of Insulting the State President…

According to the news appeared in the press on 14 July 2016, Beykoz (İstanbul) Penal Court of First Instance No 3 continued to hear the case against Deniz Durak and Nida Karabağ launched on charges of “insulting the State President”. The case was launched in connection with a public statement in Beykoz district of İstanbul in connection with the massacre in Ankara on 10 October 2016.

The court decided to suspend the judicial control decision for Deniz Durak. The court also ruled judicial control decision against Nida Karabağ who did not appear and testify before the court. The court adjourned the hearing to a later date.

(07/020) Armed Clash in Şanlıurfa…

Hüseyin Doğukan Erdoğan (17) opened fire against police officers on 11 July 2016 in Şanlıurfa following a dispute for ID control in bus terminal. 3 police officers were killed and 3 police officers were wounded during the incident. The attacker reportedly committed suicide after the incident.

(07/021) Operations and Attacks in the Southeast…

Governorate of Hakkari imposed curfew in Öveç village and its hamlets in Şemdinli district for 3 days on the grounds of military operations to be conducted in the region.

2 police officers were wounded when a police vehicle was opened fire on 11 july 2016 in Yenişehir district of Diyarbakır.

3 police officers were wounded when security forces were attacked on 11 July 2016 in Dereli district of Giresun.

2 civilians including a child were wounded when the military base in Şeyh Turki Tepesi and police station in İnönü quarter were attacked on 15 July 2016 in Siirt.

Governorate of Şırnak imposed curfew on 13 July 2016 in Roboski and Bejûh villages in Uludere district on the grounds of military operations to be conducted in the region.

Governorate of Diyarbakır imposed curfew on 14 July 2016 in 16 villages in Silvan district on the grounds of military operations to be conducted in the region.

5 militants were reportedly killed following the curfew.

Governorate of Mardin imposed curfew on 15 July 2016 in 22 villages in Artuklu, Mazıdağı and Derik districts on the grounds of military operations to be conducted in the region.

(07/022) Detentions and Arrests…

Security Forces conducted operations against Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and Democratic Regions Party (DBP) in Diyadin district of Ağrı. 25 persons were detained during the operations.

11 persons including Deputy Mayor for the district Mustafa Alpaslan who were among detainees were arrested on 14 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

9 persons including Co-Mayor of Özalp district in Van province Şerafettin Özalp were detained during the house raids conducted on 12 July 2016.

G.L. (17-male) who was detained in Silopi district of Şırnak was arrested on 11 July 2016 on the allegations of “attempting to disrupt the unity and territorial integrity of the state”.

4 persons who were among 10 members of Democratic Rights Federation (DHF) detained during operations in Adana and Hatay were arrested on 14 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

The police conducted house raids on 13 July 2016 in various districts of İzmir in connection with a “Patriotic Revolutionary Youth Movement (YDG-H) Investigation” and detained 11 persons.

4 persons were detained during house raids in Roboski village of Şırnak where curfew was imposed.

8 persons who were among 10 persons detained during house raid in Karlıova district of Bingöl were arrested on 13 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(07/023) Persons Killed during Curfews…

The bodies of 56 persons who were killed during the curfews in Silopi and Cizre districts of Şırnak were buried on 11 July 2016 for not being identified.

The body of YPS member Mehmet Giçer (Şerzan) who was killed during the clashes in Şırnak was identified on 12 July 2016.

(07/024) Condition of Prisoners…

HDP Chair for Kağızman district in Kars province Kemal Avcı who was arrested in April 2016 after his conviction in a court case for “being member of an illegal organisation” and “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” was confirmed by the Court of Cassation was released on 11 July 2016 from Silivri (İstanbul) L-type Prison No 2 relying on the medical report certifying that he was suffering from stomach cancer. He was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment.

(07/025) Death in Prison…

Aydın İpkin (37) incarcerated in Adıyaman E-type Prison allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself in his cell on 14 July 2016.

(07/026) Person Convicted in Ankara…

According to the news appeared in the press on 14 July 2016, Sincan (Ankara) Heavy Penal Court No 2 concluded to hear the case against Jiyan Arıkboğa launched on charges of “being member of an illegal organisation”. Jiyan Arıkboğa was arrested in Ankara during medical treatment when a mine exploded in Kobanê. He was in Kobanê for the reconstruction of the city.

The court sentenced Jiyan Arıkboğa to 7 years and 8 months’ imprisonment for “being member of an illegal organisation” and “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”. Jiyan Arıkboğa was released with judicial control decision.

(07/027) Mayor, Municipality and Political Party Executives on Trial for Self-Governance Declarations…

Erciş (Van) Heavy Penal Court started on 14 July 2016 to hear the case against 23 persons including Erciş Co-Mayor Diba Keskin launched on charges of ““disrupting the unity and territorial integrity of the state”. Diba Keskin was arrested on 15 October 2015 for “taking part in the declaration of self-governance” and transferred to Sincan (Ankara) Women’s Prison. She was suspended from duty on 28 October 2015 by the Ministry of Interior Affairs. 11 defendants are remanded in this case.

After the testimonies of the remanded defendants through SEGBİS teleconference system, the court decided for the continuation of the arrest of the remanded defendants and adjourned the hearing to 6 September.

(07/028) Suicide/Murder Attempt in Prison…

On 14 July 2016, İbrahim Özlü (23) incarcerated in Siirt E-type Prison was found heavşly wounded in his cell. His throat was cut.

(07/029) Correspondent on Trial in Gaziantep…

Gaziantep Heavy Penal Court No 2 started on 14 July 2016 to hear the case against Dicle News Agency (DİHA) correspondent Mehmet Hakkı Yılmaz. He was detained on 1 May 2016 for reporting the bomb attack in Gaziantep and arrested on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

After the identification and first testimony, the court decided to release the defendant to be tried without remand and adjourned the hearing to a later date.

(07/030) Mardin JİTEM Case…a

Adıyaman Heavy Penal Court No 1 continued on 14 July 2016 to hear the case against 18 defendants launched in connection with the killings and crimes committed by the gendarmerie intelligence service JİTEM members in Dargeçit district of Mardin. The case was transferred from Midyat district of Mardin to Adıyaman for security measures.

After the defence as to the accusations, the court adjourned the hearing to 3 October 2016 to hear the defendant former Gendarmerie Commander Dargeçit district Mehmet Tire.

The indictment concerning the killings of 8 persons including 3 children and one solider was accepted by Midyat (Mardin) Heavy Penal Court. The persons had been found dead after having been detained by gendarmerie intelligence JİTEM between 30 October 1995 and 3 November 1995 in Dargeçit district of Mardin or killed by unidentified persons.

Former Mardin Gendarmerie Commander Hurşit İmren, former Dargeçit Gendarmerie Commander Mehmet Tire, Gendarmerie Station Commander Mahmut Yılmaz, Gendarmerie Station Vice-Commander Haydar Topçam and driver in Gendarmerie Station Kerim Şahin were indicted in the case.

Süleyman Seyhan (57), Nedim Akyön (16), Mehmet Emin Aslan (19), Seyhan Doğan (14), Davut Altınkaynak (13), Abdurrahman Olcay (20), Abdurrahman Coşkun (21) had been detained by gendarmerie intelligence JİTEM between 30 October 1995 and 3 November 1995 during operations conducted in Dargeçit and its villages on the allegations of “aiding PKK” and taken to Dargeçit Gendarmerie Station.

According to the indictment, 7 persons had been detained during house raids by gendarmerie soldiers along with the temporary village guards. They had been killed under torture and thrown in lime pit. Specialist Sergeant Bilal Batırır (25) who had witnessed the killings and informed officials had been also killed and burnt in a coal bunker.

The body of Abdurrahman Olcay (20) was found on 10 June 2013 and his body was given to his family right after the report of the Forensic Institute.

The indictment wants Hurşit İmren, former mayor candidate of Democrat Party for Gümüşlük town of Bodrum district in Muğla, and Çepni Beldesi, mayor for Çepni town in Sivas from Republican Party, 8 times to be sentenced to life imprisonment for “murder and instigating to murder”.

Mahmut Yılmaz was asked 6 times to be sentenced to life imprisonment for “murder”, Haydar Topçam 3 times, Kerim Şahin 6 times to be sentenced to life imprisonment.

(07/031) Mehmet Ayvalıtaş Case…

Anadolu (İstanbul) Heavy Penal Court No 8 continued on 12 July 2016 to hear the case against Mehmet Görkem Demirbaş (19) and Cengiz Aktaş launched in connection with the killing of Mehmet Ayvalıtaş (21). On 2 June 2013, the defendants drove their car into the crowd during a Gezi Park demonstration in Ümraniye district of İstanbul and caused the death of Mehmet Ayvalıtaş.

The lawyers of Ayvalıtaş family objected the expert’s report alleging that Mehmet Ayvalıtaş was the only and fully negligent during the incident. The court adjourned the hearing to 26 October 2016.

(07/032) Lawyers on Trial…

İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 14 continued on 12 July 2016 to hear the case against Law Office of the Oppressed lawyers Özlem Gümüştaş and Sezin Uçar on the allegations of “being member of the illegal organisation Marxist-Leninist Communist Party (MLKP)”.

The case was reportedly launched upon reports by National Intelligence Service (MİT) and in connection with the cases they following and the meetings they took part. The court rejected the demand recusation of the defendants and adjourned the hearing to 10 November 2016.

(07/033) Ekrem Kaçeroğlu Case…

İzmir Heavy Penal Court No 8 continued on 13 July 2016 to hear the case against 4 persons without remand launched in connection with lynching Ekrem Kaçaroğlu (38). The indictment wants the defendants Reşit A. (29), Kubilay A. (19), Suat D. and Murat K. (27) to be sentenced to life imprisonment for “intentional killing” according to the Article 81 TPC.

Ekrem Kaçaroğlu (38) who was shot and heavily wounded by the police on 7 October 2014 during a demonstration in Bornova district of İzmir was lynched by civilians. He died on 19 October 2014 at the hospital.

The court decided the footages of the incident to be recovered and to be examined by the gendarmerie criminal laboratory before further crime scene investigation. The court also rejected the demand for the arrest of the defendants and adjourned the hearing to 16 November 2016.

(07/034) Persons on Trial in İzmir…

İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No 14 started on 13 July 2016 to hear the case 11 members of United Revolutionary Party (Birleşik Devrimci Parti) who were detained during the house raids conducted in İstanbul. 5 defendants were remanded in this trial.

The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced for “being member of an illegal organisation”. After the identification and first testimonies of the defendants, the court decided to release İstanbul Chair of the party Selim Polat, Vedat Türk, Yasin Aydın, Ahmet Sebat to be tried without remand and adjourned the hearing to 4 October 2016.

(07/035) Hasan Ferit Gedik Case…

Anadolu (İstanbul) Heavy Penal Court No 10 continued on 13 July 2016 to hear the case concerning the killing of Hasan Ferit Gedik on 30 September 2013 during the armed attack by drug dealers against the members of People’s Front (Halk Cephesi) in Gülsuyu quarter of Maltepe district in İstanbul. 35 defendants including 6 remanded defendants are on trial for being involved in the incidents on 28-29-30 September 2013.

At the close hearing, the court decided for the continuation of the arrests 6 remanded defendants and adjourned the hearing to 26 September 2016.

 

  • 16-22 July 2016 Daily Human Rights Report

(07/036) Coup Attempt in Turkey…

A junta in the military allegedly related to Gülenist Movement attempted a coup d’état on 15 July 2016 in Turkey

The attempt started by closing both bridges on the Bosporus in İstanbul and low approach of war planes in Ankara. The clashes continued the whole night and the attempt was quashed on 16 July 2016.

The military troops of the junta called “Yurtta Sulh Konseyi / Peace at Hoe Council” attacked the parliament, National Intelligence Service, Ankara Security Directorate, İstanbul Governorate, İstanbul Municipality, Special Forces Unit in Göbaşı district of Ankara, Gendarmerie Command, and State Presidency Palace.

Protests against the coup attempt were staged in several cities including İstanbul and Ankara. Troops of the junta attacked civilians who also attempted to stop passage of military vehicles and attacks of the troops.

According to the first official announcement, at least 173 civilians, 62 police officers and 5 soldiers died during the coup attempt.

55 of the police officers were killed in Ankara, 5 in İstanbul and 2 in Muğla.

4 soldiers were killed in Ankara and 1 solider in İstanbul.

78 civilians in Ankara, 94 civilians in İstanbul, and 1 civilian in Malatya were killed.

153 persons were also wounded during the incidents following the coup attempt: 124 police officers including 96 in Ankara, 23 in İstanbul, 3 in Muğla, 1 in Sakarya, 1 in Bayburt were also wounded.

18 soldiers in Ankara, 2 soldiers in Sakarya, 1 soldier in İstanbul were wounded.

800 civilians in Ankara, 589 civilians in İstanbul, 1 civilian in Eskişehir were wounded.

24 soldiers from the junta were reportedly killed during the incidents.

The junta reportedly abducted the commanders-in-chief of the armed forces. The Chief of General Staff Hulusi Akar was also abducted under beatings. He was kept in the centre of the junta “Akıncı 4th Main Jet Base” and he was rescued on 16 July 2016.

Military troop of 40 commandos of the junta also organised an operation against a hotel where State President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was on vacation in Marmaris district of Muğla. The operation was organised an hour after the leave of the State President of the hotel. State President reportedly went to İstanbul instead of Ankara for security reasons.

After the quash of the coup attempt, operations against the junta was started on 16 July 2016. According to the reported investigation, most of the junta members were from Gülenist Movement.

The coup attempt was allegedly started on 15 July 2016 on the grounds that an operation was planned against the members of the Gülenist Movement (FETÖ/PDY – Fettullah Terror Organisation / Parallel State Structure) in the military. (FETÖ was named after the first name of the leader of Gülenist Movement: Fettullah Gülen.)

Following the coup attempt, 10,410 persons including 7,423 military personal were reportedly detained. 4,060 of the detainees were arrested. The arrestees included 119 generals and admirals. There were a total of 358 generals and admirals in the turkish army. Alleged leader of the junta Commander of the 2nd Army Adem Huduti, Supreme Military Council member Akın Öztürk, military assistants of the Chief of the General Command and State President, Justice and Development Party (AKP) Vice-Chair Şaban Dişli’s brother General Mehmet Dişli were among arrestees.

Besides detention and arrest operations, public servants from several public institutions were suspended of dismissed from duty on the grounds of having relation to Gülenist Movement.

57 public servants including 22 public servants from Ministry of National Education were suspended from duty. Prime Ministry called all public servants on leave back to service. Public servants who were abroad for official reasons were also called back to country.

Some members of Constitutional Court, Highest Administrative Court, and the Supreme Board of Judges and Prosecutors were also suspended from duty following the coup attempt. Some of them were also arrested.

Ministry of National Education cancelled the licenses of 626 educational institutions on the grounds of having relation to Gülenist Movement. 21 teacher working for those institutions were also banned from working.

Radio and Television Supreme Council also cancelled the licenses of 24 radio and TV stations. These stations were also closed and banned from broadcasting.

Closed radio and TV station are as follows: STV, Samanyolu Haber, Samanyolu Haber Radyo, Can Erzincan TV, Kanal 124, Yumurcak TV, Hira TV, MC TV, Dünya TV, Kanal Türk, Bugün TV, Mehtap TV, Berfin FM, Kanal Türk Radyo, Burç FM, Samanyolu Haber Radyosu, Radyo Mehtap, Haber Radyo Ege, Dünya Radyo, Radyo Küre, Merkür TV, Esra Radyo, Tuna Shoping TV, Samanyolu Haber Radyo Anadolu.

Presidency of The Council of Higher Education asked 1577 deans in all universities to resign. The deans resigned from their positions.

Following the coup attempt, State President and the government called civilians on the streets stage demonstrations to protest the coup attempt. Starting from 16 July 2016, people gathered on Taksim Square in İstanbul and on Kızılay Square in Ankara for meetings which were banned for public meetings and gatherings for years.

The crowds demanded death penalty for the members of the junta during the meetings. The State President who was present during the meetings in İstanbul replied the crowd that the demands of the people could not be turned blind eye. He referred to the parliament for the decision. He also admitted that he would immediately ratify any law passed by the parliament concerning the issue.

Demonstrations and meetings continued every evening and nights since 16 July 2016. According to the news appeared in the media, some of the participants of the meetings attempted lynching of opposition groups.

The persons who did not take part in the meetings, especially women, were subjected to assaults and beatings. Their vehicles were damaged. The monument in front of Ankara Train Station for the victims of 10 October Ankara Massacre was also attacked and damaged. The Alevite quarters in Hatay and Malatya were attacked by the demonstrators. The quarters where Syrian refugees were living were reportedly attacked in several cities. The schools allegedly owned by Gülenist Movement were reportedly set to fire.

9 persons who objected lynching attempts in Hopa district of Artvin were arrested on 16 July 2016 on the allegations of supporting the coup attempt.

Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) premises were also attacked by the demonstrators. HDP premises in Osmaniye and Kocaeli provinces, İskenderun district of Mersin, Sancaktepe district of İstanbul were attacked.

Following the declarations of the governmental officials concerning the death penalty, international bodies and human rights organisations objected even the discussion of any legal amendment for death penalty relying on the international treaties.

Following the discussions on death penalty and protests against the coup attempt, the Principal Consultant to State President Şeref Malkoç made a public statement and announced a law to be prepared on owning fire arms by civilians to protect themselves from the coup attempts.

According to the news and photos appeared in the media, the soldiers who were detained or arrested during the operations against junta and Gülenist Movement were subjected to ill-treatment and torture in custody. The allegedly leaders of the junta were beaten, there were traces of beatings and bruises on their bodies. The privates were allegedly raped in custody.

The detainees were not examined by the Forensic Institute upon order of the Public Prosecutors.

Newspaper close to Gülenist Movement stopped being published and Telecommunications Communication Presidency banned on 16 July 2016 access to web sites of 20 news agencies.

The leader of the junta was not disclosed. The State President declared a State of Emergency all over the country for 3 months following the meetings of National Security Council (MGK) and the Council of Ministers held on 20 July 2016. The decree was published on the Official Gazette and the Parliament also passed the decision during the general assembly on 21 July 2016.

(07/037) Selling Local Clothing Banned in Diyarbakır…

According to the news appeared in the press on 12 July 2016, Diyarbakır Governor Hüseyin Aksoy banned selling of local cloths ‘şal û şepik’ and ‘kiras û fîstan’ after seeing the cloths on the shop windows in Sur district of Diyarbakır.

(07/038) Former Political Party Executive on Trial in Diyarbakır…

According to the news appeared in the press 15 July 2016, a court case was launched against Zübeyde Zümrüt, Democratic Regions Party (DBP) former Co-Chair for Diyarbakır. Zübeyde Zümrüt was arrested on 6 May 2016 after being detained during the operations conducted in Diyarbakır.

The indictment wants the defendant to be sentenced to a term of imprisonment up to 20 years for “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” and “violating the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations”. Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 5 will start to hear the case.

(07/039) Operations and Attacks in the Southeast…

2 soldiers were wounded when a military base of Dikboğaz Gendarmerie Station was attacked on 18 July 2016 in Eruh district of Siirt.

3 police officers were killed, 4 police officers and 1 civilian were wounded when a police team was attacked on 19 July 2016 during a road control in Maka district of Trabzon.

1 temporary village guard died 4 temporary village guards were wounded when a trapped bomb exploded on 20 July 2016 in Şirvan district of Siirt.

2 soldiers were wounded during an armed clash on 20 July 2016 in Çukurca district of Hakkari.

3 police officers and 2 alleged HPG militants were killed when an armed clash broke out following a house raid on 22 July 2016 in Ergani district of Diyarbakır. 2 police officers were also wounded during the clash.

2 police officers were heavily wounded when Siteler Police Station in Sümer quarter of Akdeniz district in Mersin was thrown a bomb on 18 July 2016.

3 persons were wounded when 2 trapped bombs exploded on 15 July 2016 in Serhad quarter of İpekyolu district in Van.

Governorate of Siirt imposed curfew on 15 July 2016 in several quarters of provincial centre on the ground of military operations to be conducted in the province.

(07/040) Curfew in Nusaybin…

Heyhat Müjde (43) and her daughter Saadet Müjde (19) died when a bomb exploded on 19 July 2016 in Nusaybin district of Mardin. Curfew was imposed in the district on 14 March 2016 and blockade in the district was on-going. They were taking out their wares from their house in Yenişehir quarter when the bomb exploded.

(07/041) Extra-judicial Killing in Hakkari…

Sürmi İnce (55) was shot to death when military troops opened fire on 18 July 2016. She was going to arable fields to see the children working in the field nearby Büyükçiftlik town of Yüksekova district in Hakkari.

(07/042) Enes Ata and Mahsum Mızrak Investigation…

Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 1 continued on 19 July 2016 to hear the case against the police officers Bilal Özkara, Hayrettin Akar and Nuri Özgenç launched on charges of causing deaths of Enes Ata (8) and Mahsum Mızrak (14) on March 2006 in Diyarbakır.

After the testimonies of the defendants and defence of their lawyers, the court adjourned the hearing to 8 December 2017 to wait for the result of the investigation concerning the missing tear gas canister. It was revealed at the previous hearings that the recordings of the radio conversations of the day of incident were deleted. Tear gas canister which caused the death of Enes Ata has also gone missing.

On 28 March 2006, the police intervened the funeral of PKK militants in Diyarbakır. 10 persons were killed and 400 persons were wounded during the incidents. Public Prosecutor asked for permission to start an investigation against the police officers in connection with the killing of Enes Ata (8), but Diyarbakır Governorate did not allow the investigation on 25 July 2012 on the grounds the perpetrator could not be identified. Public Prosecutor objected the decision and Diyarbakır Regional Administrative Court suspended the decision on 4 December 2012.

(07/043) Committee Beaten in Mardin…

The police attacked the committee of 60 persons including Democratic Society Congress (DTK) Co-Chair Leyla Güven, Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) MPs Leyla Birlik and Gürsel Yıldırım who wanted to visit Nusaybin district of Mardin following the announcement that curfew in the district was partially lifted on 19 July 2016.

The police forced the members of the committee to stand still for a long period of time facing a wall in Kışla quarter of the district. Some members of the committee were also beaten. The committee was released after a while, but the press cards of the media representatives were seized by the police.

(07/044) Detentions and Arrests…

JINHA news agency editor Zehra Doğan and Mazlum Kavak were detained on 21 July 2016 in a coffee in Nusaybin district of Mardin when they were following incidents in the district.

T.Ö. (14-male) and Ferdin Öner (20) who were detained during a house raid in Xaçort quarter of İpekyolu district in Van were arrested on 19 July 2016 on the allegations of “aiding an illegal organisation”.

İbrahim Albak, Cesim Güler and Davut Güler who were detained in Çaldıran district of Van were arrested on 15 July 2016 on the allegations of “aiding an illegal organisation”.

Security Forces conducted operations on 15 July 2016 in Silvan district of Diyarbakır and detained 20 persons.

4 persons including Co-Mayor for Özalp district Şerafettin Özalp who were among 9 persons detained during operations in Özalp district of Van were arrested on 16 July 2016 on the allegations of “aiding an illegal organisation”.

(07/045) Condition of Prisoner Set Himself to Fire…

According to the news appeared in the press on 19 July 2016, the health condition of the prisoner Mehmet Yamaç worsened. He set himself to fire on 28 April 2016 in Edirne F-type Prison to protest in the recent military operations and arrests.

Despite the vital burns, his treatment was allegedly prevented by the prisons administration. His wounds were reportedly cleaned with scouring pad.

(07/046) Death in Prison…

Democratic Regions Party (DBP) executive for Uludere district in Şırnak province Segvan Yaman incarcerated in Kalkandere (Rize) L-type Prison allegedly committed suicide on 18 July 2016 in his cell. He was arrested during the operations conducted in March 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(07/047) Impunity in Medeni Yıldırım Investigation…

According to the news appeared in the press on 19 July 016, Public Prosecutor in Diyarbakır concluded the investigation against a gendarmerie commander and his team concerning the killing of Medeni Yıldırım with the decision of on-prosecution. Medeni Yıldırım was killed and 8 persons were wounded on 28 June 2013 during a demonstration against the construction of a new gendarmerie outpost in the Kayacik village of Lice district in Diyarbakır.

(07/048) Correspondent on Trial in Malatya…

Malatya Heavy Penal Court No 2 started on 18 July 2016 to hear the case against Dicle News Agency (DİHA) correspondent Nuri Akman who was arrested on 2 February 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation” when he went to the Malatya Public Prosecutor to testify in connection with a case.

Public Prosecutor in Malatya referred his being member of Free Students Association (Özgür Öğrenci Derneği) while being student and his photographs taken in Kobanê as evidences in the indictment.

After the identification and testimony of the defendant, the court decided to release the defendant to be tried without remand and adjourned the hearing to a later date.

(07/049) Persons Died during Curfews…

A person who was reportedly stuck in a basement of a house on Caferi Sadık street in Cudi quarter during the night-curfew in Cizre district of Şırnak and died on 30 January 2016 was identified as Sultan Irmak (16) after DNA tests. The body was previously identified as Derya Karahan and buried in common grave. Her body was taken by her family on 15 July 2016.

(07/050) 3. KCK/TM Main Trial in İstanbul…

Çağlayan (İstanbul) Heavy Penal Court No 3 continued on 15 July 2016 to hear the case against 46 journalists and correspondents launched after the operation conducted on 20 December 2011 against the premises of Dicle News Agency and several other news agencies in connection with a KCK investigation.

The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced for “being member of an illegal organisation” and “being leading member of an illegal organisation”.

At the previous hearing of the case, the lawyers defended that the files of the case should be sent to the Constitutional Court on the grounds that the Temporary Article 14/4 of the Anti-terror Law and the Article 1 of the Law No 6526 on Amendments in Anti-Terror Law, Law on Criminal Procedures and in other laws were against the constitution. Since the court did not accept the demand, the court continued with testimonies of the defendants and adjourned the hearing to 18 November 2015.

 

  • 23-29 July 2016 Daily Human Rights Report

(07/071) 15 July 2016 Coup d’État Attempt…

Following coup d’état attempt on 15 July 2016 in Turkey by the junta called “Yurtta Sulh Konseyi / Peace at Hoe Council” in the military, measures continued to be taken against Gülenist Movement in the Turkish Army, bureaucracy, and non-governmental organisations.

Amnesty International made an announcement concerning the allegations on the torture and ill-treatment arrested military personal subjected to. Amnesty International announced that military personal were subjected to torture and rape according to the witnesses of the forensic physicians. The organisation also stressed its concerns about the torture incidents.

Amnesty International also announced that the arrestees were forced to stand still for 48 hours, were not given food and water; were not provided medical services.

Following the statement of the Amnesty International Ministry of Justice Bekir Bozdağ made an announcement and alleged that “no one was subjected to torture during detention or in custody”. The statement of the Minister was also published on the web site of the ministry:

“Amnesty International which was allegedly founded to fight for human rights, rule of law, and democracy did not mention in its statement the coup d’état attempt against the State President and elected government; attempt to overthrow the constitutional order; bombing of the parliament; civilians who tried to stop military tanks; firings against and killings of civilians; killing or wounding of hundreds of civilians, police officers, and soldiers. They did not criticise coup d’état attempt. All these prove that they are not objective and unbiased.”

According to the official announcement, 15,846 persons were detained, 9,056 persons were arrested following the coup d’état attempt. Passports of 21,060 persons were rendered invalid.

The number of casualties during the coup d’état attempt reached 246 persons including 179 civilians, 62 police officers, and 5 soldiers. 2,185 persons were wounded.

8 persons who objected continuous salaams from the mosques in Torbalı district of İzmir were arrested on 22 July 2016 on the allegations “of supporting the coup d’état attempt”.

During the session of the parliament on 26 July 2016, a commission was decided unanimously to be founded for the investigation of coup d’état attempt.

The 1st decree having force of law after the declaration of state of emergency was published on the Official Gazette on 22 July 2016.

Following the 1st decree having force of law after the declaration of state of emergency the period of detention was prolonged to 30 days.

With the decree 35 health care organisation, 934 schools, 109 dormitories, 104 foundations, 1125 associations, 15 universities, and 19 unions were closed and banned from activity.

The following universities were closed:

1- Altın Koza (İpek) Üniversitesi (Ankara)

2- Bursa Orhangazi Üniversitesi (Bursa)

3- Canik Başarı Üniversitesi (Samsun)

4- Selahattin Eyyubi Üniversitesi (Diyarbakır)

5- Fatih Üniversitesi (İstanbul)

6- Melikşah Üniversitesi (Kayseri)

7- Mevlana Üniversitesi (Konya)

8- Şifa Üniversitesi (İzmir)

9- Turgut Özal Üniversitesi (Ankara)

10- Zirve Üniversitesi (Gaziantep)

11- Kanuni Üniversitesi (Adana)

12- İzmir Üniversitesi (İzmir)

13- Murat Hüdavendigar Üniversitesi (İstanbul)

14- Gediz Üniversitesi (İzmir)

15- Süleyman Şah Üniversitesi (İstanbul)

The closed unions are as follows: Unions under Cihan-Sen: Ufuk Büro, Akif Eğitim, Ufuk Sağlık, Ufuk Yerel, Ufuk Haber, Ufuk Kültür, Ufuk Bayındır, Ufuk Ulaştırma, Ufuk Tarım Orman ve Ufuk Enerji. Unions under the confederation Aksiyon İş: Pak Gıda İş, Pak Maden İş, Pak Finans İş, Pak Eğitim İş, Pak Toprak İş, Pak Metal İş, Pak Enerji İş, Pak Taşıma İş and Pak Deniz İş.

The 2nd decree having force of law was published on the Official Gazette on 27 July 2016.

45 papers, 16 TV stations, 15 journals and magazines, 3 news agencies, 23 radio stations, and 29 publishing companies were closed. The Minister Transportation was also authorised to close any media company having relation to an organisation or a group threatening national security.

Following papers were closed with the decree: Millet, Bugün, Meydan, Özgür Düşünce, Taraf, Yarına Bakış, Yeni Hayat, Zaman, Today’s Zaman, Adana haber, Adana medya, Akdeniz Türk, Şuhut’un Sesi, Kurtuluş, Lider, İscehisar Durum, Türkeli, Antalya, Yerel Bakış, Nazar, Batman, Batman Postası, Batman Doğuş, Bingöl Olay, İrade, İskenderun Olay, Ekonomi, Ege’de Son Söz, Demokrat Gebze, Kocaeli Manşet, Bizim Kocaeli, Haber Kütahya, Gediz, Zafer, Hisar, Turgutlu Havadis, Milas Feza, Türkiye’de Yeni Yıldız, Hakikat, Urfa Haber Ajansı, Ajan11, Yeni Emek, Banaz Postası, Merkür Haber.

Closed TV stations: Barış TV, Bugün TV, Can Erzincan TV, Dünya TV, Hira TV, Irmak TV, Kanal 124, Kanaltürk, Mc TV, Mehtap TV, Merkür TV, Samanyolu haber, Samanyolu TV, Srt Televizyonu, Tuna Shopping, Yumurcak TV.

Closed journals and magazines: Sızıntı, Nokta, Aksiyon, Akademik Araştırmalar Dergisi, Asya Pasifik, Bisiklet Çocuk, Diyalog Avrasya, Ekolife, Ekoloji, Fountain, Gonca, Gül Yaprağı, Yağmur, Yeni Ümit, Zirve.

Closed news agencies: Cihan Haber Ajansı, Muhabir Haber Ajansı, Sem Haber Ajansı.

Closed radio stations: Aksaray Mavi Radyo, Aktüel Radyo, Berfin FM, Burç FM, Cihan Radyo, Dünya Radyo, Esra Radyo, Haber Radyo Ege, Herkül FM, Jest FM, Kanaltürk Radyo, Radyo 59, Radyo Aile Rehberi, Radyo Bamteli, Radyo Cihan, Radyo Fıkıh, Radyo Küre, Radyo Mehtap, Radyo Nur, Radyo Şimşek, Samanyolu Haber Radyosu, Umut FM, Yağmur FM.

Closed publishing companies: Altın Burç, Burak Basın Yayın, Define, Dolunay Eğitim, Giresun Basın Yayın, Gonca, Gülyurdu, GYV, Işık Akademi, Işık Özel Eğitim, Işık, İklim Basım Yayın Pazarlama, Kaydırak, Kaynak, Kervan Basın, Kuşak, Muştu, Nil, Rehber, Sürat Basım Yayın Reklâmcılık, Sütun, Şahdamar, Ufuk Basın Yayın Haber Ajans Pazarlama, Ufuk Yayınları, Waşanxaneya Nil, Yay Basın Dağıtım Paz. Reklâmcılık, Yeni Akademi,Yitik Hazine, Zambak Basım Yayın Eğitim Turizm.

According to the decrees, the public servants who were recalled in connection with coup d’état attempt were revoked the right of returning to duty. Council of Ministers was authorised for new public servant appointments and the number of the new public servants to be appointed decided to be unlimited.

The police was also authorised with the decrees to act without the decision of a public prosecutor or judge. The police was authorised to interrogate arrestees or convicts.

149 generals and admirals, 1099 officers, 436 non-commissioned officers were dismissed from the military.

The number of persons suspended from duty reached 66,036.

(07/071) Extra-judicial Killing Attempt in Diyarbakır…

Ferhat Teter (24) was wounded when gendarmerie soldiers opened fire against a vehicle on 25 July 2016 on Batman-Diyarbakır road nearby Malabadi Gendarmerie Station in Silvan district of Diyarbakır.

(07/061) Extra-judicial Killing in Van…

Tahir Çaylak was shot to death when military troops opened fire on Çulhacı street during the operations conducted following an armed clash in Xaçort quarter of İpekyolu district in Van.

(07/059) Armoured Vehicle Hit Child in Van…

Taha Kılıç (4) was killed when an armoured police vehicle hit him on 24 July 2016 in front of Security Directorate in İpekyolu district of Van. The grandfather Abdulgafur Yıldız who witnessed the incident announced that his grandson was ran over in a side street and he said: “They did it on purpose. They disappeared without a backward glance. It could have been an accident on an avenue. But this is a small side street. They were driving so fast, they were wild-eyed to run over people.”

(07/066) Persons Killed and Buried during Curfews…

1 female and 4 male members of YPS who were killed during the curfew and operations in Şırnak were buried on 27 July 2016 for not being identified.

The bodies of 1 female and 2 male YPS members were found on 24 July 2016 in Nusaybin district of Mardin where the operations were concluded.

(07/068) Curfew in Nusaybin…

Curfew and operations in Nusaybin district of Mardin reached 134th day as of 26 April 2016. The Governorate announced that curfew was lifted in the district except for the quarters Abdulkadir Paşa, Fırat, Dicle, Yenişehir, Zeynel Abidin and Kışla.

Following the decision of the Governorate, committees visited the quarters where the curfew was lifted. According to the field visits, almost all the buildings were demolished and there were traces of bullets on all buildings.

(07/069) Stop warning in Muş…

10 persons were wounded when gendarmerie soldiers opened fire against vehicles on the allegations that the drivers did not obey the stop warning on 25 July 2016 in Erentepe town of Bulanık district in Muş. 5 persons were heavily wounded during the incident.

(07/052) Operations and Attacks in the Southeast…

1 civilian was killed and 2 civilians were wounded when an armed clash broke out on 24 July 2016 in Xaçort quarter of İpekyolu district in Van.

3 soldiers were killed when a bomb exploded on 27 July 2016 during the passage of a military vehicle nearby Karaboğazı village on Siirt-Eruh road.

2 police officers died, 10 police officers and 1 civilian were wounded when Depin Police Control Point was attacked with a bomb vehicle on 27 July 2016 in Hakkari.

According to the news appeared in the press, 1 soldier and 2 militants were killed, 2 soldiers and 2 police officers were wounded when an armed clash broke out on 26 July 2016 after the attack against a military troop in Xacort quarter on İpekyolu district in Van.

1 soldier was killed and 1 soldier was wounded when a military troop was attack on 26 July in Silvan district of Diyarbakır. The troop was providing security for the construction of Silvan Dam.

1 soldier was reportedly killed when an armed attack was organised 18 July 2016 by Peoples’ United Revolution Movement (HBDH) composed of 8 Marxist-Leninist organisations in the rural area of Ovacık district in Tunceli.

1 police officer was killed and 4 police officers were wounded when an armed clash broke out following an attack against a police control point on 23 July 2016 in the city centre of Tunceli.

YPS member Rıdvan Güngen who was killed during the curfew in Şırnak was buried on 27 July 2916 after being identified.

3 police officers were killed when a bomb exploded during the passage of an armoured vehicle on 25 July 2016 nearby Hayırlı village of Kızıltepe district in Mardin.

(07/056) Disappearance in Custody in Şırnak…

According to the news appeared in the press on 24 July 2016, Yusuf Üstek (60) who was disappeared after being detained on 20 July 2016 in Bilmad hamlet of Şırnak was in custody in Anti-Terror branch in Şırnak. Both the Security Directorate and Gendarmerie Command in Şırnak did not reply previously the applications concerning the condition of Yusuf Üstek.

(07/057) Torture and Ill-treatment in Custody…

13 persons including ETHA news agency correspondent Ezgi Özer who were detained during house raids on 24 July 2016 in Tunceli were reportedly subjected to torture in Anti-Terror Branch. According to the public statement, the detainees were beaten in custody.

(07/063) Torture and Ill-treatment in Custody Allegation…

Lawyers of Mehmet Ali Genç and Metin Kösemen who were detained on 23 July 2016 in Şanlıurfa made a public statement on 28 July 2016. The lawyers announced that they were not given information on the accusations and period of detention. They also stressed that their clients were subjected to systematic torture. Following the 1st decree having force of law after the declaration of state of emergency the period of detention was prolonged to 30 days.

(07/064) Torture and Ill-treatment in Custody…

According to the news appeared in the press on 27 July 2016, B.I. (15-male) and his big brother Ozan I. (19) who were detained during a house raid in Sixkê quarter of İpekyolu district in Van were subjected to torture in custody. Ozan I. was arrested on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(07/054) Death in Prison…

Hasan Hayri Alp incarcerated in Sincan (Ankara) F-type Prison reportedly had heart attack on 19 July 2016 and died.

(07/058) Death in Prison…

Lieutenant Colonel İsmail Çakmak who was arrested on the allegations of “attempting to overthrow constitutional order” for being involved the coup d’état attempt and being member of the junta called “Yurtta Sulh Konseyi / Peace at Hoe Council” allegedly committed suicide on 23 July 2016 in his cell in Silivri (İstanbul) L-type Prison by hanging himself.

(07/051) Investigations, Detentions and Arrests on the Allegations of Insulting State President…

E.D. (23) who was detained in Seferihisar district of İzmir on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media was arrested on 27 July 2016.

D.B. who was detained after having a dispute with a group of persons gathered in Konak Square in İzmir on 17 July 2016 to protest in the coup d’état attempt was arrested on 23 July 2016 on the allegations of “insulting the State President”.

Actor and Greens and the Left Party of the Future executive for Mersin province Ali Sesal was detained on 22 July 2016 when he went to Security Directorate to testify in connection with an investigation. He was arrested on the same day on the allegations of “insulting the State President”.

K.V. who was detained in Lüleburgaz district of Kırklareli on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media was arrested on 24 July 2016.

Ferdi K. (25) who was detained in Çaycuma district of Zonguldak on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media was arrested on 25 July 2016.

Mehmet Yurtman (25) who was detained in Karaisalı district of Adana on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media was arrested on 28 July 2016.

Tuğba K. who was detained in Manavgat district of Antalya on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media was arrested on 27 July 2016.

(07/060) Journalist Convicted in Mersin…

Mersin Heavy Penal Court No 2 started on 26 July 2016 to hear the case against the journalist Emin Demir who was arrested on 31 May 2016 in connection with the messages he shared on social media. The indictment wanted the defendant to be sentenced for “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”.

Emin Demir testified at the hearing from Osmaniye F-type Prison through SEGBİS teleconference system. The court sentenced the defendant to 4 years’ imprisonment and released the defendant relying on the period he served during trial.

(07/065) Web Site Banned…

On 27 July 2016, Telecommunication Communication Directorate (TİB) banned access to the new domain of Dicle News Agency (DİHA). The number of the banned domains of DİHA reportedly reached 43. Access to the web site of the daily Özgür Gündem was also banned on the same day.

(07/070) Journalist Detained and Arrested in connection with Coup d’État Attempt…

Muhammed Taşçılar, owner of the local news portal sanliurfa.com, and editor-in-chief ot he portal Mehmet Dener who were detained in Şanlıurfa were arrested on 23 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of the Gülenist Movement (FETÖ/PDY – Fettullah Terror Organisation / Parallel State Structure)”.

Aytekin Gezici and Abdullah Özyurt who were among 6 journalists detained in Adana were also arrested on 26 July 2016 for the same allegations.

(07/062) Persons on Trial in Mersin…

According to the news appeared in the press on 28 July 2016, a court case was launched against members of the political parties Kahraman Oğuz, Hüseyin Gür, Müslüm Tank, Özgür Polat, Sevgi Aktaş, Halil Göktürk, Umut Çevik, Pelin Kahiloğulları, Yusuf Gözen, Ufuk Sultanoğulları, Mustafa Göğüş, Esra Güzel Ersoy, Güngör Didar Gül, Mert Üçler, Nurcan Tunç, Besime Özveren. The case was reportedly launched in connection with public statements they took part.

The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced for “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” and Mersin Heavy Penal Court No 2 will start to hear the case on 5 September 2016.

(07/067) Person on Trial in Hakkari…

Yüksekova (Hakkari) Heavy Penal Court started on 27 July 2016 to hear the case against Gever People’s Assembly Co-Chair Sibel Çapraz. She was wounded when the police opened fire from armoured vehicles during the operations conducted on 28 November 2015 in Yüksekova (Gever) district of Hakkari. She was arrested on 2 March 2016 after the completion of her treatment in İstanbul. The indictment wants her to be sentenced for “being member of an illegal organisation”.

Sibel Çapraz testified at the hearing from Menemen (İzmir) R-type Prison through SEGBİS teleconference system. The court rejected the release demand of the defendant to be tried without remand and adjourned the hearing to 25 October 2016.

(07/053) Persons on Trial in Hakkari…

Hakkari heavy Penal Court No 2 started on 20 July 2016 to hear the case against 9 persons including Hakkari Vice-Co-Mayor Derya Çiftçi who were detained during the operations conducted in Hakkari and arrested on 13 April 2016 on the allegations of “inciting people to uprising through declarations of self-governance”.

The indictment wants the defendants to be sentenced for “attempting to disrupt the unity and territorial integrity of the state”. After the identification and testimonies of the defendants, the court adjourned the hearing to 17 August 2016 for the completion of testimonies.

(07/055) Detentions and Arrests…

Ş.S. (15) who was detained during a road control in Nusaybin district of Mardin was arrested on 20 July 2016 on the allegations of “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” through social media messages.

Democratic Regions Party (DBP) Co-Chair for Varto district of Muş province Mahir Yılmaz, DBP executives for the district Ramazan Aktaş and Yunus Vural were detained on 22 July 2016 while visiting the shop owners in the districts.

Mahir Yılmaz was arrested on 25 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

JINHA news agency correspondent Zehra Doğan who was among 2 persons detained during ID control in Mardin was arrested on 23 July 2016 on the allegations of “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”.

Municipality Assembly member Amine Gündüz who was detained in Silvan district of Diyarbakır was arrested on 23 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

DİHA news agency correspondents Selami Aslan and Mehmet Sıddık Damar, JINHA news agency correspondents Esra Aydın and Ceylan Eraslan were detained on 26 July 2016 in Nusaybin district of Mardin where curfew was imposed in 6 neighbourhoods.

5 persons who were distributing the paper “Ekmek ve Onur (Labour and Honour)” to the dock workers on 28 July 2016 in Tuzla district of İstanbul.

Zeynel Abidin Bulut, editor of the paper Azadiya Welat, was arrested on 25 July 2016 on the grounds that his sentence in a court case was confirmed by the Court of Cassation.

 

30-31 July 2016 Daily Human Rights Report

 

(07/073) Operations and Attacks in the Southeast…

2 soldiers were wounded when a bomb exploded on 28 July 2016 during the passage of a military convoy in Şemdinli district of Hakkari.

1 civilian was wounded when a bomb exploded on 29 July 2016 during the passage of a military vehicle nearby Kazancı village of Bismil district of Diyarbakır.

8 soldiers were killed and at least 25 soldiers were wounded when a military troop was attacked on 29 July 2016 nearby Dawoşê village of Çukurca district in Hakkari.

1 soldier was heavily wounded when Hisar Tank Battalion was attacked on 29 July 2016 on foothill of Cudi Mountain in Cizre district of Şırnak.

2 soldiers were wounded when Tepe Gendarmerie Station was attacked on 30 July 2016 in Lice district of Diyarbakır.

1 soldier was wounded when Karınca Gendarmerie Station on Diyarbakır road was attacked on 30 July 2016 in Bitlis.

3 soldiers were killed and 2 soldiers were wounded when a military troop was attacked on 30 July 2016 in Mesudiye district of Ordu.

1 soldier was killed and 6 soldiers were wounded during an armed clash that broke out on 31 July 2016 nearby İncesu hamlet of Şapatan in Şemdinli district of Hakkari.

(07/074) Killing by Unidentified Assailants in Şırnak…

Doğan Dal (25) was killed by unidentified assailants on 31 July 2016 in Nur quarter of Cizre district in Şırnak.

(07/075) Person Beaten by the Police in İstanbul…

An unnamed teacher who objected being body-searched twice on 30 July 2016 in Yenikapı station of Marmaray in İstanbul and demanded the police officers to be gentle was reportedly beaten by the police officers and forcibly taken in to a storeroom.

(07/076) Books Banned…

Penal Court of Peace Judge in İstanbul banned print, distribution and selling of 672 books, CDs, and DVDs of Fethullah Gülen who was alleged leader behind the coup d’état attempt on 15 July 2016. The decision was taken on 29 July 2016 on the allegations of “making propaganda of an illegal organisation” and upon demand of İstanbul Security Directorate.

(07/077) Person on Trial in Ankara…

According to the news appeared in the press on 29 July 2016, a court case was launched against the journalist Ali Barış Kurt in connection with his comments and messages on social media. The indictment wants the defendant to be sentenced for “making propaganda of an illegal organisation”. Ankara Heavy Penal Court No 22 will start to hear the case on 22 November 2016.

(07/078) Journalists Detained and Arrested on the Allegations of Being Connected to Coup d’État Attempt…

Ali Bulaç, Şahin Alpay, Ahmet Turan Alkan, Mustafa Ünal, Nuriye Ural ve Lalezer Sarıibrahimoğlu, Nazlı Ilıcak, Bayram Kaya, Haşim Söylemez, Seyit Kılıç, Emre Soncan, Cuma Ulus, Büşra Erdal, Habip Güler, Ufuk Şanlı, Yakup Çetin, Erkan Acar, Ali Akkuş, Abdullah Kılıç, Cihan Acar, Bünyamin Köseli, Azmi Kalyoncu and Hüseyin Aydın who were among 47 journalists detained in several provinces and brought to İstanbul were arrested on 29 and 30 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.

(07/079) 15 July 2016 Coup d’État Attempt…

Following coup d’état attempt on 15 July 2016 in Turkey by the junta called “Yurtta Sulh Konseyi / Peace at Hoe Council” in the military, measures continued to be taken against Gülenist Movement in the Turkish Army, bureaucracy, and non-governmental organisations.

The 3rd decree having force of law with the title “Measures to be taken under the State of Emergency, Foundation of National Security University and Several Amendments in the Laws” was published on the Official Gazette on 31 July 2016.

A new university called National Security University was founded with the decree. General Staff College, military schools and schools for non-commissioned officers were closed.

Gülhane Military Medical Academy (GATA) and military hospitals were assigned to Ministry of Health.

1389 army personnel were dismissed. Land Forces, Marine Forces, and Air Forces were centralised under the Ministry of National Security.

Ministers of Justice, Foreign Affairs and Interior Affairs were appointed as permanent members of Supreme Military Council.

According to the official announcement by the State President on 30 July 2016, 18,699 persons were detained, 10,137 persons were arrested, passports of 49,211 were rendered invalid since the coup d’état attempt on 15 July 2016.

(07/080) Detentions and Arrests…

The police conducted house raids on 31 July 2016 in İstanbul and detained 9 persons including 1 child on the allegations of “being member of Devrimci Gençlik İnisiyatifi (Revolutionary Youth Initiative)”.

Recep Ber who was detained in Dargeçit district of Mardin on the allegations of “insulting the State President” through comments on social media was arrested on 29 July 2016.

The police detained 7 persons during ID control o 31 July 2016 in Yüksekova district of Hakkari. The reason of the detentions was not disclosed.

Şırnak Municipality worker Celal Kaplan who was detained during a ID control was arrested on 31 July 2016 on the allegations of “being member of an illegal organisation”.