MESOP NEWS DOCUMENTS – FULL REPORT : Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (HRFT/TIHV) Daily Human Rights Reports September 2017

(missing 01-04, 13-20 September) – 05 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/015) Civilians injured in Lice…
On September 3, 2017, it is reported that 3 civilians were injured in the Baglan village of Diyarbakir’s Lice district, due to open fire from armed forces choppers.
The injured persons were kept waiting at the village center due to ambulance blockage from the governorate.
It is learned that the condition of Celal Yıldırım (58) injured from his head and leg is critical. Münir Serin (32) was taken into custody following his medical treatment due to an arrest warrant. Celal Yıldırım was restrained from seeing his family because of an arrest warrant on him.

According to the news appeared in presson September 4, armed forces tortured Cemal Yıldırım and Münir Serin while both were injured. The news indicates that both men have bruises on their faces and bodies because of the torture and Celal Yıldırım’s teeth are broken.
It is also alleged that the houses were raided in the village where men were tortured and women and children were forced to lay on the ground and wait. The son of Cemal Yıldırım, Bedir Yıldırım, is also taken into custody but it is learned that his family has not been informed on his whereabouts.
MP’s of HDP Feleknas Uca, Ziya Pir, Sibel Yigitalp and other party officials formed a committee and went to the village to monitor the incident but were blocked by armed forces. The committee however, managed to arrive to the village afterwards.
(09/016) Operations and Attacks in South East…
It is reported that on 3 September 3 2017, 1 soldier is killed in Cukurca district of Hakkari by the PKK militants through a rocket propelled grenade attack.
(09/017) Torture and Other ill-Treatment in Prison…
On September 4, it is alleged by the news appeared in press that Birhat Yalçın, a prisoner in Tarsus T Type Women Prison, was tortured by armed forces with her hair cut off by a blunt blade in the transfer vehicle on the way to the prison.
It is learned that prisoners in Edirne Type F prison are restrained from their social, cultural and sportive activity rights by the prison administration.
It is learned that in Mersin Type E prison, 20 to 25 are forced to stay in ward with maximum 6 people capacity. Prisoners are also not given adequate water and food.
(09/018) Public Statement Intervened in Istanbul…
On September 4, 2017, a public statement which was organized by TAYAD families took place in front of Silivri prison. A statement was released objecting the same-type prison uniform draft. Armed forces intervened following the meeting, trying to prevent press members to follow through and taking 7 people into custody. The names of the detainees are: Fatma Karaoğlan, İsmail Kara, Selda Aydoğdu, Köksal Taş, Mulla Zincir, A. Murtaza Odabaşı and an individual named Aydın whose last name has not been identified.
(09/019) Police Intervention in Ankara towards “I Want My Job Back” demonstration…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a public statement in front of the Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 5, 2017. Two meetings planned at 13.00 and 18.00 respectively were both prevented by the police forces who clocked entrance to the street by barriers.
There hasn’t been a detainment towards the 13:00 meeting but 4 people including journalist Oktay İnce following the press meeting were taken into custody. Detainees were later released. The names of the detainees are: Mehmet Dersulu, Sultan Aydoğdu, Aleyna Sert and Oktay İnce.
(09/020) Journalist Detained…
On September 4, 2017, Evrensel reporter Kemal Özer’s house was searched in the evening where he was absent. Later on a search point set up on Tunceli-Ovacık road, Özer was found and taken into custody for being a member of an illegal organization. It is learned that Özer’s camera and digital appliances were also taken from his house. Turkey Journalists Union General Manager Gökhan Durmuş and Turkey Journalists Association General Manager Turgay Olcayto separately released statements condemning the incident and demanded immediate release of Özer.
(09/021) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
S.A. and K.A. were taken into custody on August 31, 2017 in Antalya Airport. It is learned that S.A. was released on September 4, after interrogation at the prosecution Office.
(09/022) Curfew in Nusaybin…
Mardin Governorate announced on 27 February 2017 an open ended curfew in Akarsu quarter of Nusaybin District starting 01.30. The Governorate made a second announcement on the same day and lifted the curfew by 04.00.
06 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/023) Extrajudicial Execution Claim in Mersin…
On the morning of September 6th 2017, a person who had tried entered the 50. Yıl Police Station in the city of Mersin was shot dead due to disobeying stop warning. The individual was suspected as a suicide bomber. Office of the Governor of Mersin released the following statement: ‘‘A male within 50 meters of distance to the police station with suspicious behavior was detected. Suspect did not obey the stop warning and kept approaching the station. As he reached out for a cable among his shoulder he was shot and restraint.’’
The press has been claiming that the nationality of the person is Syrian however officials have declared that ‘‘(…) the investigation for the man’s identification and possible organizational ties continue.’’.
(09/024) Police Brutality in Kocaeli…
Press coverage on September 5th shows that a person named Cevdet Alemdar has been physically abused by police forces due to a missing identification card during a regular ID control on September 4, 2017. Although victim has clarified that the ID is in the coffeehouse that belongs to his father, located 50 meters away, police officer allegedly abused the man both physically and verbally. The victim is reported to have diabetics and needed an insulin shot thus relatives and his father came along upon hearing the incident. Police officers dispensed them with pepper spray. It is reported that Cevdet Alemdar has several bruises on his face due to physical abuse.
(09/025) Operations and attacks in South East…
The news coverage on September 5, 2017 reported that on September 4, the forest fires caused by military operations in Central district of Tunceli and Pülümür district continue to exhilarate due to wind. Village residents who wanted to intervene to the fire are blocked by armed forces on the ground that the areas had been declared as special security zones.
(09/026) Torture and other ill-Treatment in Prison
On September 6, 2017, news coverage report that the prisoners at the Menemen Type R prison are withheld from basic medical rights. Attorney Gülizar Tuncer stated that several physically ill prisoners have not been sent to a medical facility for 7 months. Tuncel also stated that 3 prisoners named Özal Korkmaz, Ahmet Hani and Yusuf Bulut were physically abused by the staff when they resisted to return to their cells before their legitimate open air time was over. Prisoners were forced back into their cells after they were forced to gravel on the floor. Attorney added that the medical team at the prison have issued reports on the abuse but the criminal complaint issued based on the report remained inconclusive. It is reported thatAhmet Hani and Özal Korkmaz both have palsy, whereas Yusuf Bulut is suffering from a severe mental
health condition.
(09/027) Police Intervened to the Public Statement of Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça’s Attorneys…
Attorneys of both Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça planned for a joint press meeting in fron of the Ministry of Justice for September 5, beginning of the new court year. Police forces intervened and prevented the meeting also taking 3 people in custody. People who are taking into custody are Attorney Engin Gökoğlu, Attorney Aytül Kaplan and FOSEM employee İpek Moral.
(09/028) Police Intervention in Ankara towards “I Want My Job Back” demonstration…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a press meeting i front of the Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 5, 2017. Two meetings planned at 13.00 and 18.00 respectively were both prevented by the police forces who clocked entrance to the street by barriers. It is reported that none of the demonstrators were detained.
(09/029) Detention and arrests…
On September 6, 2017, 5 people in Adana were taken into custody through house raid with the accusation of activities on behalf PKK. A female was taken into custody with her infant baby.
(09/030) Detention and arrests of individuals associated with coup attempt…
Maçka District Gendarme Chief Zabit Zengin who was taken into custody on August 23, 2017 was arrested on September 5.
It is reported that 1 individual is taken into custody at the sea customs border in Marmaris district of Muğla while traveling abroad.
It is learned that on September 5, 4 individuals who were taken into custody while crossing the border at Ipsala Gate in Edirne were sent to court for arrest. 3 out of these are arrested and 1 is released with judicial control condition.
21 out of 26 people who had been taken into custody on various dates through the ‘‘FETÖ/PYD’’ investigation in Manisa were arrested on 5 September 2017. 5 are released with judicial control condition.
(09/031) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
On September 5, 2017, final hearing for 12 persons took place following the case opened by Kayseri Criminal Court No 2. 11 persons are sentenced to 6 years 3 months for membership of an illegal organization. 1 is acquitted.
(09/032) Special security zone in Bingöl…
The Governorate of Bingol declared 18 regions in Central, Solhan, Adaklı, Genç, Yayladere, Kiğı, Karlıova and Yedisu districts as special security zones between 5 September 2017 and 19 September 2017.
07 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/033) Civilians Dead in Hakkari…
It is learned that on September 6, 2017 in rural areas of Çobanpınar village located on Hakkari’s Yüksekova district, 2 workers died and 3 workers are injured during an attack by a group, allegedly PKK militants. 2 of 3 injured workers are in critical condition.
(09/034) Operations and Attacks in South East…
News coverage from September 6, 2017 reported that on 13th of July 1 militant was killed during an air strike on Kandil and on 19th of August and 4 militants died during a clash between armed forces and PKK militants in Gürpınar district of Van.
It is learned from the news coverage that emerged on September 7, 2017 that 11 militants died on 26th of
June during a clash between armed forces and HPG militants.
(09/035) Torture and Other Ill-Treatment in Prison…
On September 6, 2017 news coverage reported that a prisoner named Rozerin İldan in Elazığ Women’s Prison was allegedly taken out of her cell for a testimony to a prosecutor and later tortured by prison staff including the manager. Father of Rozerin İldan declared to press that two prisoners from every ward including his daughter were taken to isolation cell were tortured there following the first incident.
It is also learned from news coverage of September 6, 2017 that prisoners in Bafra Type T prison were tortured by wardens following an open visit. Relatives were allegedly forced to listen the irritation of prisoners during torture for 45 minutes. One of the relatives of the prisoners spoke about the incident and stated: “As they took the prisoners out of the room they locked the doors of the room we were in. In the meantime, we heard screams of prisoners. They were being tortured. And we were forced to listen. When we asked the wardens, what was happening and what the voices were, they did not answer.’’
It is learned on September 6, 2017 that detained Co-Chair of Democratic Regional Party (DBP) Sebahat Tuncel is banned from any sportive activity for 2 months because of her hunger strike in solidarity with Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça. Tuncel previously went on a 3-day hunger strike to support Gülmen and Özakça in Silivri prison.
It is learned that leftist political prisoners in Kırıklar F Type prison are placed among prisoners accused through the ‘‘FETÖ/PDY’’ investigation.
The report prepared by ÖHP (Free Lawyers Platform) declared that in Kocaeli Type T Prison, prisoner groups of 21 persons are forced to stay in wards with a capacity of 8 inmates. Due to this some prisoners are forced to sleep on the ground. Not enough food is provided, transfers to medical care facilities are delayed, prisoners are forced to walk in military order, buttoning up their jackets in the presence of prison management and letters from relatives are deliberately delivered late.
(09/036) Hunger Strike in Prison…
It is learned that prisoners in Tekirdağ No 2 Type F prison are on a hunger strike in shifts to protest conditions in the prison. The reasons of the hunger strike include blockage towards prisoners right to communicate as well as cultural, social rights and sportive activities. It is stated that clothes and other belongings sent to the prisoners are restrained from reaching them and any complaints regarding right violations are blocked from reaching Ministry of Justice.
(09/037) Police Intervention in Ankara towards “I Want My Job Back” demonstration…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a public statement in front of the Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 6, 2017. Two meetings planned at 13.00 and 18.00 respectively were both prevented by the police forces who blocked entrance to the street by barriers.
It is learned that the meeting planned on September 6, 2017 did not result with any detainment.
(09/038) Police Operation towards SGDF…
It is learned that 3 persons, detained on August 29, 2017 including SGDF co-chair Ceren Çoban, are arrested on September 6, 2017 due to content they shared on social media. Name of the detainees: Ceren Çoban, Ali Karaçay and Çağrı Aydoğan.
(09/039) Hearing of Former HDP MP…
HDP’s Former MP for Ağrı, Halil Aksoy’s final hearing at the Ağrı Penal Court resulted in a 13 year 6 months of sentence due to illegal organization membership. Aksoy is still in Rize Prison.
(09/040) Hearing of Journalist…
It is learned that 4 years of sentence given to journalist Mehmet Emin Demir due to the accusation of ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ has been approved by Antalya District Court. Demir was
detained on May 30, 2016 and later arrested.
(09/041) Trials in İstanbul…
The hearing of ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’ accusation for arrested detainees Harun Turgan, former HDP Executive, Bülent Uyguner and 6 defendants that are not arrested continued in İstanbul 30th Penal Court. The Court ruled the release of Turgan and Uyguner and lifted the judicial control condition for other 6 defendants.
Harun Tulgan and Bülent Uyguner were detained in İstanbul on March 24, 2017 during the police intervention towards the commemoration for İbrahim Kaypakkaya.
(09/042) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
The hearing of Burdur 58. Infantry Regiment Commender Metin Karagöz, Antalya 3. Infantry Brigade Commander General Mustafa Kaya and Antalya Gendarme Commander Colonel Ahmet Yurdagül at Antalya 8. Penal Court continued on September 6, 2017. Court ruled the release of Kaya with judicial control condition and continuity of other two soldiers arrest.
(09/043) Blocked Website…
On September 5, 2017, Ankara 3. Penal Court of Peace blocked access to two articles published on cumhuriyet.com.tr. The articles are titled “İşte Siyasi Ayak” (The Political Branch [of coup d’Etat]) and “Yazıcı’ya 10 Soru” (10 Questions to Yazıcı).
08 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/044) Abduction Claim in Ankara…
On September 7,2017 news coverage reported that HDP Party Assembly member and SGDF MYK member Ozancan Sarı was abducted by civil police officers and physically abused in a rural area of Ankara for 3 hours. Sarı was later released in Gölbaşı.
(09/045) Armed Assault to Hakkari Mayor’s House…
It is learned that on September 7, 2017 there was an armed assault towards the house of Fatih Keskin, an independent mayor for Hakkari’s Durankaya sub-district. No one was harmed in the assault.
(09/046) Suicide Claim in Prison…
News coverage on September 2, 2017 reported that a prisoner committed suicide in Tarsus No 2 Type T Prison. Prison management has denied the claim and stated that ‘‘No such thing happened.’’.
(09/047) Torture and Ill-Treatment in Prison…
It is learned through news coverage on September 7, 2017 that 68 female prisoners are subject to physical abuse and ill-treatment in Bayburt Type M Prison.
It is learned that Yılmaz Uçar who was physically abused by wardens on August 8, 2017, has been transferred to Seydişehir Type T Prison against his will and demand. Uçar has been transferred before the stiches in his head wound was received medical treatment.
It is learned on September 7, 2017 that the distributor of Daily Özgürlükçü Demokrasi Serkan Erdoğan was sent to an isolation cell because he allegedly resisted wardens in Tarsus Type T prison, where he is a prisoner.
It is learned from the news outlets on September 7, 2017 that in Silivri Prison cameras which can monitor toilets and baths were placed in wards of women prisoners.
(09/048) Workplace Killings…
Work Place Healthy and Safety Committee (İSİG) declared that in August, 217 workers including at least 16
child workers lost lives due to workplace accidents/killings. The number of deaths in the first 8 months of the year is 1338.
(09/049) Detentions in Sur…
It is learned from news coverage that as demolition continues in Alipaşa and Lalebey neighborhoods in Diyarbakır’s Sur district, Ayşe Dün’s house was demolished and she was restrained from taking out her belongings. Due to Ayşe Dün and her son reacting to police officers, more people from the neighborhood gathered to resist the demolition. This resulted in police forces firing arms in the air, physically abusing and detaining 3 persons.
(09/050) Police Intervention in Ankara towards “I Want My Job Back” demonstration…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a public statement in front of the Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 7, 2017. Two meetings planned at 13.30 and 18.00 respectively were both prevented by the police forces who clocked entrance to the street by barriers.
During the police intervention at 13.30’da 1 person named Deniz Aydın was detained. Aydın was later released after a fine for demeanor was issued. No detainment took place at the 18.00 meeting.
(09/051) Person Detained for Wearing the “Hero” T-shirt…
It is learned that on September 7, 2017, a university student named B.Ö. was detained for wearing a tshirt that wrote ‘’Hero’’ on the front. The student was interrogated at the police station half naked for 3 hours and later transferred to prosecution.
(09/052) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that 13 out of 24 people with detainment order in Kayseri, 32 out of 40 in Adiyaman and 30 in Manisa were detained. Also 25 soldier were detained in Kocaeli.
It is reported that through a Mersin based ongoing investigation, detainment orders were issued for 35 soldiers and operations are in place in 16 cities for capturing these soldiers.
It is learned that among 2 German citizens that were detained on August 31, 2017 in connection with ‘‘FETÖ/PYD investigation”, K.A. is released on September 7, 2017 with an overseas travel ban condition. The other detainee S.A. was previously released on September 4, 2017.
(09/053) Trial of DBP Co-chair Sebahat Tuncel…
The trial of DBP co-chair Sebahat Tuncel’s Diyarbakır 8. Criminal Court case continued on September 7, 2017. Tuncel is charged with ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘violating the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations’’. Tuncel refused to attend the trial through SEGBİS as she requested to be present in person to make her defense. It is learned that Court Judge has reacted to this decision ad stated ‘‘Unacceptable. She will come and sit there. We will decide whether she attends or not.’’. Following the defenses of attorneys, the court ruled that the defendant is not entitled to decide whether to be or not in the SEGBİS room thus adjourned the trial to January 2018 and requested Tuncel to be present in the SEGBİS room at the time.
(09/054) Trial of HDP MP’s…
The trial of HDP MP Selma Irmak continued in Diyarbakır 5th Heavy Penal Court on September 8, 2017. Irmak refused to attend the trial through SEGBİS because she wanted to be present in person. Irmak is charged with ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ for 6 times. The court ruled the continuity of Irmak’s arrest and adjourned the trial to a further date. Selma Irmak was arrested on November 4, 2017. HDP Hakkari MP Nihat Akdoğan’s trial continued on September 8, 2017 in Diyarbakır 4th Heavy Penal Court. Criminal charges for Akdoğan include ‘‘being member of an illegal organization’’, ‘‘endorsing crime and criminals’’, ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’. Akdoğan did not attend the trial. The court overruled the request to lift Akdoğan’s overseas travel ban and adjourned the trial to a further date.
On September 8, 2017 HDP Kars MP Ayhan Bilgen’s trial in Diyarbakır 5. Criminal Court, resulted with the release of Bilgen. Bilgen was detained in January 29, 2017 and was later released. Following an objection from Prosecution Office, Bilgen was once again detained, later arrested on January 31 2017 and charged with illegal organization membership.
(09/055) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
Final hearing for 35 defendants including former Artillery Regiment Commander Coronel Turgut Çelebi took place on September 7, 2017 in Antep 7th Heavy Penal Court. After last testimonies of defendants, the court sentenced 9 defendants to heavy life imprisonment, all of whom found guilty of “trying to overthrow constitutional order”. 26 defendants were acquitted. Names of the defendants found guilty are: Colonel Turgut Çelebi, Lieutenant Colonel Özgür Öztürk, Major Hakan Aydemir, Lieutenant Colonel Yüksel Acı, Lieutenant Colonel İnanç Asım Anıl, Major Mehmet Akif Ayhan, Lieutenant Şamil Topal, Lieutenant Kürşat Aktaş and Lieutenant Akın Ergül.
The trial of arrested defendant former Afyonkarahisar Supply Station Commender İsmet Gökhan Gülmez continued in Afyonkarahisar Heavy Crime Court on September 7, 2017. Gökhan was released with juicidial control condition.
A relative of Fettullah Gülen, Ömer Gülen’s hearing took place in Erzurum 2nd Heavy Court. Ömer Gülen is found guilty of ‘‘being member of an illegal organization’’ and sentenced to 6 years 3 months.
The trial of 40 defendants including CHP leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu’s former advisor Doç. Dr. Fatih Gürsul continued at the Istanbul 25th Heavy Penal Court. 7 of 40 defendants are already arrested. The court ruled the continuity of 7 defendant’s arrests and lifted the judiciary control condition on others. The trial has been adjourned to November 13, 2017.
The final hearing for the trials of a former police officer and TRT Executive took place on September 7, 2017 in Ankara 17th Heavy Penal Court. Both defendants are found guilty of ‘‘being member of an illegal organization’’ and sentenced to 9 years.
(09/056) Supreme Court Decision on Cancellations of MP Status…
Supreme Court has overruled the objection towards cancellations of MP statuses for HDP Şırnak MP Faysal Sarıyıldız and Van MP Tuğba Hezer Öztürk with a unanimous vote, based on 85th amendment of the constitution.
Both Sarıyıldız and Öztürk’s MP statuses were cancelled due to lack of ‘‘attendance’’ through a voting at the Parliament. Previously HDP Van MP Figen Yüksekdağ’s and HDP Diyarbakır MP Nursel Aydoğan’s MP statuses were also cancelled due to final court orders. Currently the Parliaments MP number is down to 546 and HDP’s MP number is down to 55.
09-11 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/057) Operations and Attacks in the South East…
It is learned that on September 8, 2017, 1 soldier is killed and 1 is wounded in Adaklı district of Bingöl during the clashes between armed forces and HPG militants.
On September 9, 2017 news coverage reported that 4 militants are killed in Gürpınar district of Van during the clashes between armed forces and HPG militants on August 21, 2017.
On September 9, 2017 news coverage reported that 3 militants are killed in Tunceli during the clashes between armed forces and HPG militants on September 2, 2017.
It is learned that on September 10, 2017, 3 soldiers are wounded in a military base during an armed attack by HPG militants.
On September 11, 2017, news coverage reported that during the clashes between armed forces and HPG militants, 1 militant is killed in Hakkari on May 25, 2017, 1 militant is killed in Erzurum on August 27, 2017, 1 militant is killed in Maraş on August 29, 2017.
(09/058) Worker Killed in Siirt…
On September 9, 2017, a business-person named Mehmet Salih Arslan was fatally wounded in front of his house in Kemerli village of Siirt, through an attack allegedly by HPG militants. Arslan lost his life in the hospital. 5 persons are detained due to possible ties with the incident. News coverage on September 10, 2017 reported that HPG is claiming responsibility for the killing of Arslan.
(09/059) Torture and Ill-Treatment in Karayazı Yahya Neighborhood…
On September 11, 2017, it is learned through news coverage that around 40 houses were raided in Yahya neighborhood located in Karayazı district of Erzurum. One of the house owners named Eda Göksu revelaed in her statement to press that all members of the household including children were held guns to their heads and women were not allowed to dress up. A 14-year old witness D.G. stated that armed forces hit his father in the head and stomach leaving him covered in blood.
It is learned that Ahmet Göksu and his son were detained following the raid. The news reported that Ahmet Göksu was diagnosed with ‘‘fatal wounds’’ but was still taken to a police station where he continued to be subjected physical abuse and as urinated blood.
(09/060) Civilians Wounded in Hakkari Explosion…
It is learned that there was an explosion near Dolavere Hill Military Base on Yüksekova district of Hakkari while a vehicle was passing by. 3 people were wounded. It is claimed that the vehicle was the tow truck coming to pull another vehicle belonging to VEDAŞ which was previously harmed during an explosion that killed 2 people.
(09/061) Celal Yıldırım Wounded During Bağlan Village Raid Detained…
It is learned that Celal Yıldırım who was heavily wounded during a raid by the armed forces in Bağlan Village of Diyarbakır’s Lice District, was detained on September 9, 2017. Yıldırım was detained in the hospital before his medical treatment was finalized and taken to Diyarbakır Gendarmerie Station.
(09/062) Investiogation on CHP MP Sezgin Tanrıkulu…
It is learned that Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor Office opened an investigation against CHP Istanbul MP Sezgin Tanrıkulu based on his statement and social media posts regarding 4 civilians shot by the AUAV (Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)
Mehmet Temel lost his life and 3 other were wounded in the incident on August 31, 2017. Governorate of Hakkari released a statement and claimed that people shot were ‘‘collaborators’’ meeting with PKK militants. State of Defense also released a statement on September 6, declaring no civilians were harmed during their operations. CHP MP Tanrıkulu shared posts and statements indicating the opposite, claiming that the killed and wounded people were indeed civilians.
(09/063) Torture and Other Ill-Treatment in Prison…
A prisoner in Diyarbakır Type D prison with celiac disease and a pituitary disorder is reportedly sent to Elazığ State Hospital and later transferred to Dicle University Hospital. The prisoner named Yavuz was in Elazığ No 2 Type F prison where he was transferred from Diyarbakır Type D prison. It is learned that Yavuz started his treatment in March and after he was arrested he was was sent to Elazığ Prison despite medical reports.
It is learned through news coverage on September 9, 2017 that a prisoner named Emrah Yayla in Kırıkkale Prison suffered from severe bruises in his arm after he was physically abused by wardens in the prison. The news also reported that another prisoner named Gökhan Gündüz’s arm was broken in the same prison.
On September 9, 2017 news coverage reported that a prisoner named Deniz Şah was physically abused by wardens in Kürkçüler Prison. Şah reportedly vomited twice following the incident but was not transferred to a medical facility.
On September 9, 2017 news coverage reported that prisoner Sami Kaya who have been in prison for 8 years haven’t been examined by a doctor for 3 months despite needing a regular 20 day check due to his
chronic heart, blood pressure and diabetic diseases.
It is learned on September 9, 2017 that Lice Municipality Co-Mayor Rezan Zuğurli, arrested on August 17, 2017, was transferred to Van Type T prison against her will with her 1 year old infant child. It is reported that the child who suffers from lung disease therefore has intolerance towards closed spaces was also transferred in a closed ring vehicle.
News coverage from September 10, 2017 also reported that 3 female prisoners in Tarsus Female Prison were forced out of their cells and were returned after 3 days. During these 3 day they were reportedly subjected torture.
(09/064) Hunger Strike in Prison…
It is learned through news coverage on September 10, 2017 that 10 prisoners in Konya Seydişehir Type T prison have been in a hunger strike since August 24, 2017. The cause of the hunger strike is reported to be the prisoners’ transfer requests to other locations and right violations in the prison.
It is also reported in news coverage from September 10, 2017 that 5 more prisoners joined the ongoing hunger strike in Tarsus Female Prison and the total number of prisoners on a strike rise to 17.
(09/065) Police Intervention in Ankara towards “I Want My Job Back” demonstration…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a public statement in front of the Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 8, 9, and 10 2017, respectively. All meetings planned at 13.00 and 18.00 were both prevented by the police forces who blocked entrance to the street by barriers.
12 people were physically abused and detained at the meeting on September 8, 18:00. Detainees were later released within the day. Name of the detained people are: Mehmet Dersulu, Simge Aksam, Veli Saçılık, Fulya Demir, Mustafa Elmapınar, Aleyna Sert, Sezer Çelik, İlker Işık, Çağla Çakır, Aslı Saraç, Fevzi Çakmak and journalist Ali Haydar Çelebi.
(09/066) Detention and Arrests…
It is learned that detainee C.B., accused of “being a member of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ was arrested by the Çanakkale Penal Court on September 8, 2017 following his testimony through SEGBİS. C.B. was detained in Muğla district of Marmaris.
(09/067) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned through news coverage on September 9, 2017 that 22 people in Van are detained due to alleged ByLock usage.
(09/068) Trial of HDP Executive Aysel Tuğluk …
HDP Co-Vice Chair Aysel Tuğluk’s trial for the accusation of ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’ continued on September 8, 2017. Tuğluk did not attend the trial. The court ruled for the continuity of Tuğluk’s arrest and adjourned the trial to December 15, 2017.
(09/069) Penalty Fines to Vehicles in Adana…
On September 9, 2017 news coverage reported that a wedding car convoy was fined due to yellow, red and green decorations on the cars. Police reportedly stopped the cars due to a denunciation. The decorations from the cars were ripped off and drivers were issued 95.00 TL penalties.
(09/070) Special Security Zone in Hakkari …
Governorate of Hakkari announced on September 8, 2017 that 29 locations in Central, Çukurca, Şemdinli and Yüksekova districts of Hakkari are declared special security zones between 11 September 2017 and 25 September 2017.
12 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/071) Police Raid in People’s Law Office…
It is learned that on September 12, 2017 through an Istanbul based investigation police conducted a raid in People’s Law Office and detained 10 attorneys including attorneys of Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça. Özakça and Gülmen’s trial is on September 14. It is reported that Justice School in Ankara, both the Ankara and İstanbul offices of the firm and houses of the some of the attorneys were raided
Names of detained attorneys are: Barkın Timtik, Ebru Timtik, Şükriye Erden, Aytaç Ünsal, Engin Gökoğlu, Ezgi Çakır, Süleyman Gökten, Didem Baydar Ünsal, Ahmet Mandacı, Yağmur Ereren.
(09/072) Torture and Other Ill-Treatmen Allegations in Yahya Quarter of Karayazı…
Ahmet Göksu, who was detained on September 8, 2017 during a police raid in Yahya Quarter of Erzurum’s Karayazı district and was allegedly tortured since his detention, is learned to have met with his family on September 11, 2017 at the Yenişehir Police Station where he is kept. It is reported that Göksu has bruises in his body and has a black eye. Göksu revealed the tortue and stated: ‘‘My left ear doesn’t hear. I was hit at home for 3-4 hours. They tied my eyes and my arms from my back and hit me with a iron stick and a rifle end.’’
(09/073) Trial of Cumhuriyet Newspaper…
The trial of 20 detainees including Cumhuriyet’s President of Executive Board Akın Atalay, journalists Kadri Atalay and Ahmet Şık who are among the arrested 6, took place outside the Court room built outside Silivri Prison. The trial opened through the 27th Heavy Penal Court, was decided to take place in that court room. The court ruled the continuity of arrests following the defendants’ testimonies and attorney’s defenses. Güray Öz, Hakan Kara, Musa Kart, Turhan Günay, Bülent Utku, Mustafa Kemal Güngör and Önder Çelik were released at the first trial of the case on July 24, 2017.
(09/074) Speech of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein’in…
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, mentioned the state of human rights in Turkey during his speech at the opening of 36th Human Rights Council in Geneva. During the part of his speech concerning Turkey, Al Hussein stressed that freedom of expression and free speech is under severe pressure, many journalists, academics, attorneys, human rights defenders and civil society activists are detained. Al Hussein addressed and asked the Turkish Government to end these practices violating a healthy, free, transparent society. Al Hussein also called for the extensions of State of Emergency to stop.
(09/075) Operations and Attacks in South East…
It is learned through news coverage that the forest fire started on August 28, 2017 during military operations in Altınsu village of Hakkari’s Şemdinli district continues. As the fire goes on for 13 days, villagers arriving to the area to intervene are blocked by military forces.
(09/076) Torture and Other Ill-Treatment in Prison…
It is learned through news coverage on September 11, 2017 that prisoners with severe diseases in İzmir Kırıklar No 2 Type F Prison are restrained from receiving medical treatment. Same news coverage also reported that following the talks on single-type prison uniforms, prisoners couldn’t receive clothes sent to them by relatives, their existing clothes were collected, newspapers, magazines, radio and books were restrained and water has been cut despite the extremely warm weather.
News coverage from September 12, 2017 reported that prisoner İsmet Akın at the Kırklareli Prison who is jailed since 2012, has been prevented from a necessary surgery for 1,5 years.
(09/077) Number of Students in Prison…
Ministry of Justice answered the parliamentary question by CHP MP Gamze Akkuş regarding the number of student jailed in Turkey. Ministry stated that the number of students in prison is 69,301 as of 2016. News coverage reported that total number of people jailed in Turkey is 197,297 which makes students consist 35
percent of the total number. In May 2013, the number of students in prison was 2,776.
(09/078) Swedish Citizen Deported from İstanbul…
On September 12, 2017 news coverage reported that an Iraq born Kurdish young man named Shorsh (27) was interrogated following the passport check at the Istanbul airport. It is learned that he was in Istanbul for vacation, his smartphone was taken by the officers and his social media posts were checked. When Shorsh, who is a Swedish citizen wanted to call Swedish Embassy he was allegedly abused physically. Later he was deported, forced to board a plane to Denmark.
(09/079) Detention and Arrests…
It is learned that 7 persons including 3 Syrians were detained in Urfa. They were arrested by the court they were sent to on September 11, 2017.
(09/080) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that 22 soldiers were detained, detainment requests were issued for 31 soldiers on September 11, 2017 through a Kocaeli based investigation.
It is learned that detainment requests were issued on September 12, 2017 for 63 former MIT employees and operations are in place in 8 cities for capture of these people.
It is learned that a detainment request was issued for former Ege University Dean Cüneyt Hoşcoşkun on September 12, 2017 through a ‘‘FETÖ/PYD’’ investigation. It is reported Hoşcoşkun’s house was raided and some belongings were taken. Hoşcoşkun was not present at the house during the raid.
(09/081) The Trial of Former HDP Co-Chair Figen Yüksekdağ …
The trial of former HDP Co-Chair Figen Yüksekdağ continued on September 11, 2017. Yüksekdağ was accused of ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘insulting the Turkish Republic and Turkish government’’ by Mersin 2nd heavy Penal Court, based on her speeches at HDP Mersin City Congress and Newroz celebrations. Yüksekdağ did not attend the trial. Indictment requested Yüksekdağ to be sentenced to 10 years. The court adjourned the trial to a further date for Yükseldağ to prepare her defense.
(09/082) Trials of HDP MP’s…
HDP Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtaş’s trial based on the accusation of ‘’insulting Turkish nation, the Republic and Grand National Assembly of Turkey’’ by Diyarbakır Criminal Court of First Instance No 2 continued on September 11, 2017. Demirtaş did not attend the trial as he refused to attend through SEGBİS. Supreme Court overruled the objection regarding the decision enabling the court to decide defendant’s attendance through SEGBİS. The Court also decided to combine the case with another trial at Diyarbakır Criminal Court of First Instance No 7.
(09/083) Trial of Gündem Newspaper…
The trial of Tuğrul Eryılmaz, Editor in Chief of now closed newspaper Özgür Gündem, continued on September 12, 2017. The case was opened by Istanbul 22th heavy Penal Court. Indictment wants defendant to be sentenced for ‘‘printing and publishing the announcements of an illegal organization’’. The court adjourned the hearing to October 20, 2017.
(09/084) Trials in İstanbul …
The trial of 14 arrested ESP, SKM and SGDF members started on September 11, 2017. Defendants are accused of ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ because they carried a photograph of Ayşe Deniz Karacagil who was killed in Syria, during a protest in Istanbul. Following the testimonies all defendants including ESP MYK member Özgen Saadet and SKM spokesperson Gülçin Aykul were released with a judiciary control condition. The trial was adjourned to December 6, 2017.
(09/085) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt……
The trial for Fettullah Gülen’s brother Kutbettin Gülen by İzmir 14th Heavy Penal Court continued on September 11, 2017. Arrested defendant Gülen attended the trial through SEGBİS and refused all
accusations, requesting his release due to a deteriorating health condition. The court adjourned the trial to a further date and decided on the continuity of defendant’s arrest until committee reports on health conditions arrive.
(09/086) Curfew in Şemdinli…
Governorate of Hakkari declared curfew on 1 village, 2 streets and 1 hamlet for 7 days between 22:00-05:00. The locations with curfew are: Göksu village, Dereboyu and Elde neighborhoods and İncesu hamlet.
(09/087) Events Banned in Mardin…
Governorate of Mardin declared on September 11, 2017 that all marches, public statements, closed and open location meetings, sit-in protests, opening of stands, putting up posters of any kind and distributing pamphlets and any other events obligated to take a special permission from Sub-Governorate between September 7, 2017 and October 19, 2017.
21 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/131) Suspicious Death in Diyarbakır Prison…
Abdullah Derin (34), detained on August 31, 2017, arrested 11 days later and sent to Diyarbakır Type D Prison, was found dead. Derin allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself with bed sheets.
News coverage on September 21, 2017 reported that Derin’s autopsy report indicated death by suffocation but no bruises were found around his neck.
Derin’s father Sabri Derin spoke about the suicide allegation and said: ‘‘My son was in prison for a month, 3 months ago. He was in solitary confinement. He would have committed suicide back then, if he had the intention to. I do not believe he committed suicide in the ward. Even if he did, it might because of what he went through under detainment.’’
It is claimed that both the hospital and trustee appointed municipality did not send an ambulance for the transfer of Derin’s funeral and the family buried him to Yeniköy cemetery with their own efforts.
News coverage also reported that Abdullah Derin was tortured under detainment and both him and his family were forced to be confitents.
(09/132) Attorneys of People’s Law Office Arrested…
16 attorneys detained following September 12, 2017 were brought to Çağlayan Court House on September 20, 2017.
14 attorneys were arrested and 2 were released. It is learned from news coverage that defending Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça, being attorney in the cases of Dilek Doğan and Berkin Elvan who were both killed by police forces and of Hasan Ferit Gedik who was killed by criminal organization in Maltepe, forming committees to visit Sur, Cizre, Silvan, Reyhanlı, Soma and Ermenek were all accusations.
One of the detained attorneys Ebru Timtik stated in her testimony that on September 18, 2017 they were subject to torture in detainment after the medical examination. Following the examination, they were abused physically when they refused a body check and one of the attorneys named Didem Ünsal’s head was hit to a wall. Following the testimony, they were requested to submit fingerprints and when they effused this on the basis that their fingerprints are available in police records they were abused and tortured once again.
Names of arrested attorneys: Didem Baydar, Şükriye Erden, Ayşegül Çağatay, Ebru Timtik, Aytaç Ünsal, Zehra Özdemir, Yağmur Ereren, Engin Gökoğlu, Süleyman Gökten, Aycan Çiçek, Naciye Demir, Behiç Aşçı, Barkın Timtik and Özgür Yılmaz.
(09/133) Operations and Attacks in Southeast…
It is learned from news coverage that forest fire believed to start from gun fire of armed forces in Tunceli continues and as of September 20, it destroyed about 400 hectares of land.
(09/134) Detentions and Arrests…
It is learned that 10 people were detained on September 21, 2017 due to accusation of ‘helping treatments of wounded PKK militants’.
(09/135) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that through a Konya based “Classified imam investigation” detention decisions were made for 125 people working at Konya Military Air Base. Operations reportedly started in 32 cities and 30 people have been detained.
It is learned that on September 21, 2017 in Acıpayan district of Denizli, 22 people were detained due to accusation of ByLock usage. 8 of these people were arrested. 14 were released, 10 of which with judiciary control condition.
(09/136) Polis Intervention to Commemoration of Suruç in Ankara…
It is learned that on September 20, 2017 members of Federation of Socialist Youth Associations (SGDF) and ESP planned a commemoration event for the 26th month of Suruç Massacre. Police intervened to the protest and dispersed attendees by physically abusing them.
(09/137) Person Detained for Wearing ‘Hero’ T-shirt…
It is learned that on September 20, 2017 a high school student named T.T. (17, m) was detained due to wearing a t-shirt that had “Hero” writing on. The student was later released.
(09/138) Uğur Kurt Trial…
It is learned that Ministry of Interior has been pled fully guilty for the death of Uğur Kurt who was shot at the garden of a Djemevi in Istanbul, Okmeydanı. On May 2014, Kurt was present at the Djemevi for the funeral of a relative and he was shot by a police officer intervening to a group of protestors in Okmeydanı.
Ministry of Interior has been sentenced to pay 734,162 TL to Kurt’s family. Previously, police officer Sezgin K who shot Kurt was charged with a 12.000 TL recompense.
(09/139) Journalist on Trial in Diyarbakır …
The trial for journalist Hayati Yıldız continued September 20, 2017 at Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 9. Yıldız was accused of ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘objection against firearms law’’. Following his testimonial, Yıldız was released with judiciary control condition and the trial was adjourned to November 2017.
Hayati Yıldız was a journalist at now closed Azadiya Welat newspaper and he was detained on February 17, 2017. He was later arrested at March 1, 2017. Yıldız was tortured under detention therefor suffered a fracture on his right cheekbone and bruises on his right eye.
(09/140) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
The trial of 17 detainees including journalists Ahmet Altan, Mehmet Altan and Nazlı Ilıcak took place in Istanbul 26th Heavy Penal Court on September 19, 2017. 6 of 17 were already arrested. In the indictment which was prepared by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Ahmet Altan, Mehmet Altan and Nazlı Ilıcak are all accused of “attempting to overthrow the constitutional order”, “attempting to overthrow the Turkish government”, “attempting to overthrow Turkish National Assembly”. The Prosecutor’s Office demands heavy life sentences for these crimes plus demands 15 years of sentence for all three due to the accusation of ‘‘membership of an illegal organization and committing crime in the name of the organization’’.
Other defendants are accused of ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘leadership of an illegal organization’’. Defendant Mehmet Altan stated that books and documents necessary for his testimony were withheld in prison. Following the testimonies of defendants, the court ruled fort he continuity of their arrests and adjourned the trial to November 13, 2017.
The trial of Metin Seyfi Sazak, former Chief of Police for Zonguldak between 2010-2014, continued on September 20, 2017 at Zonguldak Heavy Penal Court No 2. Indictment demanded heavy life sentence for Sazak due to accusations of ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’, “attempting to overthrow Turkish Government and preventing the government from functioning” and “attempting to overthrow the constitutional order”. Following the defense and testimony of defendant and witnesses, the court ruled for the release of Sazak with a judiciary control condition. The court adjourned the trial to a further date. It is reported that the Chief Prosecutor’s Office objected the release of Sazak.
The trial for 11 people including 9 arrested continued on September 20, 2017 at Kayseri 2nd Heavy Penal Court. Aliye Boydak, wife of Şükrü Boydak, Boydak Holding’s Chairman of Executive Board, was among arrested. The court ruled for the continuity of defendants arrests and adjourned the trial to December 14, 2017.
(09/141) Curfew in Baykan …
Governorate of Siirt declared on September 20, 2017 an open ended curfew in 2 villages and 1 hamlet of Baykan district. The curfew started at 10.30 am.
Villages and hamlet with a curfew were: Dedebakır and Tütenocak villages, Aşağıtütenocak hamlet.
With two separate announcements on September 20 and 21, the Governorate of Siirt stated that curfews are lifted in Tüteoncak Village and Aşağıtütenocak hamlet as of 19.00 and 13.30 respectively.
(09/142) Curfew in Lice…
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 21, 2017 an open ended curfew in 12 villages and 11 hamlets of Lice district. The curfew started at 05.00 am.
Villages and hamlets with curfew are: Budak, Dallıca, Tepe, Türeli, Kabakaya, Kutlu, Yalaza, Ortaç, Bağlan, Oyuklu, Çavundur, Dolunay villages; Hevselbey, Kolbağı, Alataş, Kalkanlı, Bakanlar, Hacıcemil, Esenli, Çaylarbaşı, Göçer, Kerpiçören, Çanak hamlets.
(09/143) Curfew in Hazro …
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 21, 2017 an open ended curfew in 2 villages and 2 hamlets of Hazro district. The curfew started at 05.00 am.
Villages and hamlets with curfew are: Çitlibahçe, Ormankaya villages; Güzdamı and Şahgeldi hamlets.
(09/144) Curfew in Silvan …
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 21, 2017 an open ended curfew in 4 villages and 4 hamlets of Silvan district. The curfew started at 05.00 am.
Villages and hamlets with curfew are: Mutluca, Çaldere, Dolaplıdere, Dağçılar villages; Üçdirek, Ergeçiti, Kayabağı and Erkenciler hamlets.
(09/145) Curfew in Kulp…
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 21, 2017 an open ended curfew in 5 villages and 6 hamlets of Kulp district. The curfew started at 05.00 am.
Villages and hamlets with curfew are: Çukurca, Demirli, Düzce, Bayıkköy, Taşköprü villages; Zümrütlü, Keçiveren, Yukarıpolat, Aşağıpolat, Mevik and Taşköprü hamlets.
(09/146) Special Security Zone in Doğubayazıt …
Governorate of Doğubayazıt declared on September 19, 2017 that entrance is blocked to 7 neighborhoods within 3 villages for 45 days.
Areas with blocked entrance are: Güngören Village’s Kalhasan, Yenigün, Gir and Yakacık neighborhoods; Yaygınyurt Village’s Sütçü neighborhood; Gölyözü Village’s Eliköy and Mirağıl neighborhoods.
22 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/147) Civilian Deaths in Kandil and Around Villages…
News coverage from September 21, 2017 reported that during air strikes by Turkish Military Air Forces on September 19-20 around Kandil and surrounding villages of Iraq Kurdistan region, some compounds were damaged and 10 civilians lost lives.
Regarding the incident, General Staff announced that on September 19-20, 2017 air strikes were made against PKK camps in the region.
(09/148) Civilian Deaths and Injuries from SIHA Attack in Hakkari…
It is learned that İsmail Aydın injured from an AUAV (Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) attack on August 31, 2017 in Oğul village of Hakkari continues to receive medical treatment. Due to a bomb attack by AUAV, Aydın was injured from both arms, right foot heel, abdomen and will go under a second surgery for his right arm.
Musa Tarhan and İbrahim Sak, both also injured from the same incident were detained and later arrested by the court.
(09/149) Syrian Dissident and Journalist Killed in İstanbul…
Syrian dissident Orouba Barakat (60) and her journalist daughter Halla Barakat (22) were found dead in their apartment in İstanbul, Üsküdar. It is reported that both mother and daughter lived in the same neighborhood for 2-3 years. Both were found their throats slit.
(09/150) Operations and Attacks in Southeast…
It is learned that on September 21, 2017 1 soldier was killed and 5 were injured during clashes between armed forces and HPG militants in Hakkari’s Yüksekova district.
It is learned from news coverage of September 21, 2017 that on September 5, 2017, 4 militants were killed during clashes between HPG militants and armed forces in rural areas of Muş’s Derik village.
It is learned from news coverage of September 22, 2017 that 2 militants were killed on August 27, 2017 during clashes between HPG militants and armed forces in rural areas of Bitlis’s Mutki district. On September 8-9, 1 militant was killed during clashes between HPG militants and armed forces in rural areas of Tunceli’s Nazmiye district.
(09/151) Dead Body Found in Nusaybin…
It is learned that on September 21, 2017 a dead body was found during construction in Mardin’s Nusaybin district. Body was found in one of the neighborhoods demolished during curfews. Another body was found in the same area 2 weeks ago.
(09/152) Suspicious Death in Prison…
It is learned from news coverage of September 20, 2017 that Ali Yamuç was found dead in Antalya Type L Prison. Yamuç was convicted with murder due to killings of Ali Ulvi and Ayşin Büyüknohutçu, protesters resisting stone quarries in Antalya’s Finike district. Yamuç allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself at his cell’s bathroom with rubber band of his tracksuit.
Attorney of Büyüknohutçu family stated that they are suspicious towards a suicide possibility. Ali Yamuç previously stated in his testimony that he was offered 50.000 TL by a man nicknamed ‘Ugly’ who worked at the now closed stone quarry. Yamuç claimed that he was already paid 3.000 TL of the money. Later a letter written by Yamuç was found on his wife Fatma Yamuç who was also arrested. In the letter, Ali Yamuç blamed another stone quarry owner and threatened to reveal the name.
(09/153) Torture and Ill-Treatment in Prison…
It is learned from news coverage of September 21, 2017 that prisoners in Elazığ Type T prison will refuse to attend trials, use call and visitor rights to protest violations they’ve been subjected in prison.
It is learned from news coverage of September 22, 2017 that prisoner cells in Elazığ Type T Prison were frequently raided by wardens, book and notebooks of prisoners were taken and the ones who resist were physically abused.
News coverage on September 22, 2017 reported that a prisoner named Çerki Mimkara (19) in İskenderun Type T prison were physically abused by 10 wardens because he refused to be searched naked. It is learned that due to abuse, his left ear doesn’t hear and right ear has temporary sensory loss. Mimkara was not sent to hospital and kept in solitary confinement.
A report covering right violations throughout August in Silivri No 9 prison was published by news outlets on September 22, 2017. It is learned from the coverage that on August 11, 2017 prisoners Fırat Kıl and İlyaz Kazan were severely beaten by wardens raiding room no: C4124. Both prisoners were not taken to infirmary. Additionally, 7 prisoners were given disciplinary punishments due to starting hunger strikes in solidarity with Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça. It is learned that prisoner’s letters were censored, their right to meeting with attorneys was limited, belongings sent by relatives were intentionally delayed, prisoners from different wards’ right to talk with each other talking with each other was banned and prisoners were prevented from keeping more than 10 books. Additional books were collected by the prison administration.
(09/154) Hunger Strike in Prison…
It is learned from news coverage on September 22, 2017 that the number of female prisoners on a hunger strike in Tarsus Type T Prison rise to 60 as of September 22. The strike began with 12 female prisoners on August 15, 2017.
(09/155) Person Detained in Ankara During Justice Watch for Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça…
It is reported on September 21, 2017 1 person named Mustafa Keçeli is detained in front of Ankara Courthouse during Justice Watch for Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça.
(09/156) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that detention requests have been issued for 27 people for using ByLock, through a Yalova based investigation. Through operations in 5 cities 24 of these people were detained. It is learned that 12 of 24 appeared in court on September 21, 2017 and were released with judiciary control condition. Procedures continue for 12 people.
It is learned that 123 people were detained on September 21, 2017 through an Izmir based ‘‘FETÖ/PYD’’ investigation. These people were working as teachers in schools and as employees in companies that allegedly had ties with the illegal organization.
It is learned that 9 out of 12 people issued with detention requests were detained on September 21, 2017.
It is learned that 13 people detained in Maraş were sent to court on September 21, 2017. 3 of 13 were arrested. It is reported that procedures continue for 7 people who were among the 20-people detained through the same investigation.
11 out of 17 people detained in Antalya were sent to court and arrested on September 21, 2017. It is reported that 6 people were released with judiciary control condition.
It is learned that 25 people were detained in Diyarbakır on September 21, 2017 due to ByLock usage allegation. It is reported that 2 of 47 people with detention requests are disabled and 1 is currently under medical treatment. It is learned that by the request of Public Prosecutor’s Office, disabled people were interrogated at home whereas the person with medical condition will be interrogated in the hospital.
It is reported that 10 of 18 people detained in Adana on September 21, 2017 were arrested. 8 were released with judiciary control condition. 1 of 11 people previously detained through the same investigation were arrested, 10 were released with judiciary control condition.
It is reported that among regular soldiers detained through an Aydın based investigation, 7 were sent to court on September 21, 2017. 3 soldiers were arrested and 4 were released with judiciary control
condition. Previously detained 3 people through the same investigation were arrested.
(09/157) Trials of HDP MP’s…
HDP Diyarbakır MP İdris Baluken’s trial continued on September 21, 2017. A law suit was filed against Baluken at Bingöl Penal Court of First Instance No 2 for his speech in 2014 at Halepçe Massacre Commemoration. Baluken did not attend the trial. The court acquitted Baluken.
HDP Ağrı MP Leyla Zana’s trial for the accusation of ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ by Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 3 continued on September 21, 2017. Zana did not attend the trial. The court adjourned the trial to October 5, 2017 due to new appointed prosecutor not being able to review the case yet.
HDP Diyarbakır MP Feleknas Uca’s trial for the accusation of ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’ due to her various speeches in 6 different meetings, continued on September 21, 2017. The law suit was filed by Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 5. Uca did not attend the trial. Court ruled to adjourn the trial to March 13, 2017. At the previous trial, court ordered Uca’s speeches to be sent to Dicle University Kurdology Department for translation. Records of her speech at the Turkish National Assembly was asked from Assembly Secretariat.
(09/158) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
24th Term Mersin AKP MP Ahmet Tevfik Uzun’s trial at the Mersin Heavy Penal Court No 8 continued on September 21, 2017. The court ruled for the release of Uzun with a judiciary control condition and adjourned the trial to a further date.
During the trial at the Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No 4, former Gendarmerie Commander Colonel Keleş was sentenced to 5 years for ‘‘membership of an illegal organization.’’ Keleş was dismissed for following crimes: ‘‘attempting to overthrow constitutional order’’, ‘‘attempting to overthrow government of Republic of Turkey or preventing it from functioning’’, ‘‘attempting to overthrow Turkish National Assembly and attempting to prevent National Assembly from functioning’’. The court ruled for the continuity of Keleş’s arrest.
(09/159) Event Banned in İstanbul …
On September 21, 2017, İstanbul Beyoğlu Governorate banned the award ceremony of 25th Musa Anter ‘Martyrs of Free Press’ awards due to state of emergency. Following the ban, awards were distributed to its owners in İstanbul Office of Human Rights Association.
23-25 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/160) Person Assaulted by Police in İstanbul…
It is learned that on September 23, 2017 a car was stopped at a control point by the police and passengers were asked to leave the car. One person got out of the car but the driver disobeyed police officers stop warning and drove. Driver later crashed the car while being chased by the police and continued to run away by foot. It is reported that the driver was shot by the police while running and was sent to a hospital. The driver Engin U. allegedly fired to police officers his gun while running.
(09/161) Civilian Found Dead in Tunceli…
It is learned from news coverage of September 23, 2017 that a dead body was found near Yaylagünü village. It is claimed that the body belongs to Rıza Öztürk living in Sarıtosun village of Tunceli’s Ovacık district. Firs investigations showed that Örük was killed with a fire arm. It is also learned from news reports that MLKP took responsibility of the killing.
(09/162) Worker Killed in Hakkari…
Governorate of Hakkari declared that 1 worker and 1 soldier was killed, 2 soldiers were injured during an attack towards a military base construction site located in Şemdinli district.
(09/163) Armed Assault to Hakkari Mayor’s House…
It is learned that on September 24, 2017 Mayor of Hakkari’s Durankaya Sub-District Fatih Keskin’s house was attacked by alleged PKK militants. It is reported that stun grenades were thrown to the house and long barrel guns were fired. No deaths or injuries occurred. Governorate declared that 3 people are detained regarding the incident.
Fatih Keskin’s house was attacked on September 7, 2017 as well. No deaths or injuries occurred.
(09/164) Operations and Attacks in Southeast…
Governorate of Hakkari declared that 1 soldier died and 1 soldier was injured during a bomb attack while military vehicles were passing in Yüksekova District. Also in Yüksekova during another clash, 1 soldier was killed and 5 soldiers were injured.
It is learned from news coverage of September 23, 2017 that on August 31, 2017 2 HPG militants were killed in Hakkari’s Yüksekova district during air strikes and land bombings through a military operation. On September 22, 1 militant was killed in Hakkari’s Şemdinli district during a clash between security forces and HPG militants.
(09/165) Torture and Ill-Treatment in Prison…
It is learned from news coverage of September 25, 2017 that prisoner cells in Düzce Type T prison has been raided by the wardens continuously at night and prisoners were threatened to be sent to solitary cells. It is also learned that personal belongings of prisoners such as books, magazines and radios were kept by the administration.
It is learned from news coverage of September 22, 2017 that prisoners in Bolu Type F Prison were forced to declare their names and the names of the people they talk to if they wish to use the phone. It is also learned that the phone calls of the ones refusing to give names were disrupted.
It is learned from news coverage of September 24, 2017 that again in Bolu Type F Prison arrested and convicted prisoners from PKK trials were forced to wear badges that wrote ‘‘PKK member’’ while going to infirmary, hospital, library and sport facilities. The ones who refuse to wear the badge are reportedly prevented from going to these facilities.
News coverage on September 24, 2017 claimed that two prisoners named Ferdi İşçi and Deniz Can in Edirne Type F Prison were physically abused and forced out of their cells, hogtied and sent to a isolation cell. It is reported that two prisoners were later sent to solitary cells. It is learned that other prisoners protesting the situation by hitting the door and fences were transferred to other prisons on September 11, 2017. The same news coverage reports that before the transfer prisoners Fikret Kara, Barış Aras, İleri Kızılaltun and Ayberk Demirdöğen were physically assaulted by wardens. Then Aras, Kızılatın and Demirdöğen were dog tied and put to isolation cell.
It is learned from news coverage of September 25, 2017 that 25 prisoners in Adana Kürkçüler Prison were transferred to various other locations. 17 prisoners were sent to Tarsus Type T Prison, 8 prisoners were sent to Alanya Type L Prison.
It is learned that 4 people from the same family were located in 3 different prisons. The family’s request to be transferred to the same prison was denied on September 23, 2017. It is reported in the news coverage that Abdullah Çetin and Ferhat Çetin was sent to Patnos Type C Prison, Necdet Çetin was sent to Gümüşhane Type E Prison and Tevfik Çetin was sent to Siirt Type E Prison.
(09/166) Rejection of Meeting Request with Öcalan…
It is learned that PKK Leader Abdullah Öcalan’s brother, sister and families of Hamili Yıldırım, Ömer Hayri Konar and Veysel Aktaş who are also in İmrali Prison requested visitation and submitted a request to Bursa Public Prosecutor’s Office. The request was denied on the same day on the basis of limitations regarding the convicted prisoners due to Law on the Execution of Criminal and Security Measures Number 5275.
(09/167) Urfa Bar President Assaulted by police…
It is learned from news coverage of September 22, 2017 that Urfa Bar President Ahmet Tüysüz was physically abused by police officers when he was in Viranşehir Courthouse to meet with a client. It is learned that due to assault Tüysüz had bruises on his body. Tüysüz said in his statement in the press: ‘‘There was a short conversation between me and my client. A police officer witnessed this conversation and although he understood I was an attorney he asked who I was: ‘a friend or a foe?’. And before letting me show my identity they asked how they could know if I was an attorney. Before I could ask what was happening, he ordered other officers to throw me out and detain me and I was abused during all this tumult.’’
(09/168) Police Raid to Grup Yorum’s Album Signing…
It is learned that on September 24, 2017 police raided Grup Yorum’s album signing taking place in Idil Culture Center in İstanbul Okmeydanı. It is reported that police forced everyone to lie on the ground at the cafeteria and made mandatory criminal record checks (GBT). During the raid, Culture Center’s employees were reportedly physcally abused and some were injured. Names of the people detained are: Atilla Atan, Neslihan Albayrak, Taylan, Bahar Kurt, Özgür Gültekin Ali Sinan Çağlar, Ayfer Rüzgar, Dilek Kaya, Meral Hır, Aygül Birgül, Meral Gökoğlu.
(09/169) Police Operation Towards DHKPC…
It is learned from news coverage of September 23, 2017 that through an ‘‘investigation towards DHKPC’’ by Istanbul Public prosecutor’s Office, arrest warrants have been filed for 110 people.
It is learned that 15 people detained from September 12 and onwards, including Grup Yorum member Betül Varan, are still kept in İstanbul Police Headquarters. Names of the detainees are: Özlem Kütük, Dilan Uludağ, Karip Polat, Hasan Karapınar, Yeliz Kılıç Sevcan Adıgüzel, Betül Varan, Bayram Güleç, İlyas Argan, Ulaş İnci, Selda Özçelik, Demir Özçelik, Yurdagül Gümüş, Fikret Akar, Abdullah Özgün. It is reported that Ulaş İnci was physically abused while his fingerprints were recorded.
(09/170) Co-Mayor Detained…
It is learned that co-Mayor of Mersin’s Akdeniz Districk Mehmet Fazıl Türk was detained on September 22, 2017 when he went to Prosecutor’s Office to testify. Previously, a trustee was appointed in his place. Türk was detained due to an alleged warrant of arrest.
An arrest warrant was issued for Türk previously on December 12, 2016 as well but Türk was not detained. Through the same investigation 22 people, including Akdeniz co-Mayor Yüksel Mutlu and HDP Mersin Provincial executive Sadun Doğan, were detained and 15 were arrested. Later on July 20, 2017 all defendants were released with judiciary control condition.
(09/171) Detention in İstanbul for Yellow, Red, Green Colors…
It is learned that on September 24, 2017 a wedding convoy in İstanbul’s Sultangazi district was stopped by police officers because of waving yellow-red-green scarfs. Many people including the groom and bride were detained.
(09/172) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that on September 22, 2017 in Kocaeli 10 people including police officers, through a Kocaeli based investigation 27 people including regular soldiers and in İzmir 26 people through an investigation towards attorneys were detained.
It is learned that on September 22, 2017 İzmir Seferihisar Director of Education was detained because he shared on social media a photo of himself in front of a stone that wrote ‘Hero’ on.
It is reported that 25 of 33 people who were detained through an Elazığ based investigation on September 11, 2017, were arrested on September 22, 2017. 8 of 33 were released with judiciary control condition.
It is reported that 11 of 16 people, who were detained in İstanbul, were sent to court and arrested on September 22, 2017. 5 people were released with judiciary control condition.
It is reported that sub-governor of Trabzon’s Tonya district Halit Mengi, who was detained on September 21, 2017, was arrested as he appeared in court, on September 22, 2017.
On September 22, 2017 3 of 10 women who were detained on September 12, 2017 in Manisa’s Kula district, were sent to court on September 22, 2017. It is reported that one of the women, A.T., is the sister of Kula Mayor. Through the same investigation 7 people were sent to court previously, 4 of which arrested and 3 released with judiciary control condition.
It is learned that 5 of 13 people who were detained on September 23, 2017 were sent to court and arrested on September 24, 2017. 8 people were released with judiciary control condition.
It is reported that 9 of 20 people detained in Afyon were sent to court and arrested on September 23, 2017. 11 people were released with judiciary control condition.
It is learned from news reports that 19 members of Turkish Armed Forces were detained in İstanbul. Detention orders had been issued for 43 people.
Again on September 24, 2017 19 people were detained in Urfa.
(09/173) Trial of Journalist in Diyarbakır…
It is learned that Diyarbakır 9th Heavy Penal Court ruled for the release of Evrensel newspaper journalist Yusuf Karataş. Karataş was detained through the DTK investigation on July 27, 2017.
(09/174) Trial of Journalist in İstanbul…
İstanbul 5th Criminal Court ruled for the release of Sözcü Newspaper Online News Director Mediha Ongun with a judiciary control condition with pending trial. Ongun was detained on May 19, 2017 and arrested on May 26, 2017. Sözcü reporter Gökmen Ulu arrested through the same investigation remains arrested.
(09/175) Trial of Bomb Attack Towards Diyarbakır Çınar District Police Headquarters…
The trial of 4 defendants regarding the bomb attack towards Çınar Police Headquarters and police lodgment continued on September 22, 2017. Attack was on January 13, 2016 and 3 of 4 defendants were arrested. It is learned that police officers verbally insulted defendants following attorney’s defenses and was asked to leave the court room. All defendants were present in courtroom. Court ruled for the continuity of arrests and adjourned the trial to January 2018.
During the trial on June 2, 2017 police officer Cengiz Başaran mentioned defendants testifying in Kurdish and said ‘‘Defending themselves in Kurdish means they accept the crimes’’. His words did not go on record.
(09/176) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
The trial of 12 defendants accused with the abduction of Turkish Land Forces General Kamil Başoğlu during July 15 Coup Attempt, continued at Ankara 17th Heavy Penal Court on September 22, 2017. Prosecution declared the indictment and requested heavy life sentence plus 36 years’ prison sentence for 8 defendants. Chief Guard of the President Coronel Muhsin was sentenced with 21 years. The court adjourned the trial date to October 4, 2017.
3 separate trials for 6 defendants including 3 arrested continued on September 22, 2017. Final hearings at the Kırıkkale 1st Heavy Penal Court sentenced 1 defendant to 7 years 1 month, 1 defendant to 7 years 6 months, 1 defendant to 6 years 9 months, 1 defendant to 8 years 3 months. The second trial with one defendant sentenced the defendant to 8 years 3 months, third trial sentenced the defendant to 7 years 6 months.
Also in Kırıkkale 1st Heavy Penal Court a married couple on trial with one of them arrested, both defendants were sentenced to 6 years 11 months and 22 days. The court also ruled for the release of arrested defendant due to health reasons and arres of the other defendant.
(09/177) Curfew in Lice…
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 24, 2017 that curfews implemented on September 21, 2017 in 12 villages and 11 hamlets of Diyarbakır’s Lice district will be lifted, as of 5:00 am. Villages and
hamlets that had curfew are: Budak, Dallıca, Tepe, Türeli, Kabakaya, Kutlu, Yalaza, Ortaç, Bağlan, Oyuklu, Çavundur, Dolunay villages; Hevselbey, Kolbağı, Alataş, Kalkanlı, Bakanlar, Hacıcemil, Esenli, Çaylarbaşı, Göçer, Kerpiçören, Çanak hamlets.
(09/178) Curfew in Hazro…
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 24, 2017 that curfews implemented on September 21, 2017 in 2 villages and 2 hamlets of Diyarbakır’s Hazro district will be lifted, as of 5:00 am. Villages and hamlets that had curfew are: Çitlibahçe, Ormankaya villages; Güzdamı and Şahgeldi hamlets.
(09/179) Curfew in Silvan…
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 24, 2017 that curfews implemented on September 21, 2017 in 4 villages and 14hamlets of Diyarbakır’s Silvan district will be lifted, as of 5:00 am. Villages and hamlets that had curfew are: Mutluca, Çaldere, Dolaplıdere, Dağçılar villages; Üçdirek, Ergeçiti, Kayabağı and Erkenciler hamlets.
(09/180) Curfew in Kulp …
Governorate of Diyarbakır declared on September 24, 2017 that curfews implemented on September 21, 2017 in 5 villages and 6 hamlets of Diyarbakır’s Kulp district will be lifted, as of 5:00 am. Villages and hamlets that had curfew are: Çukurca, Demirli, Düzce, Bayıkköy, Taşköprü villages; Zümrütlü, Keçiveren, Yukarıpolat, Aşağıpolat, Mevik and Taşköprü hamlets.
(09/181) Special Security Zone in Elazığ …
Governorate of Elazığ declared on September 23, 2017 that 15 locations in Karakoçan, Alacakaya, Arıcak and Palu districts will be special security zones between September 23, 2017 and October 7, 2017.
(09/182) Special Security Zone in Hakkari…
Governorate of Hakkari declared on September 24, 2017 that 31 locations within Centeral, Çukurca, Şemdinli and Yüksekova districts will be special security zones between September 26, 2017 and October 10, 2017.
26 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/183) Nuriye Gülmen Put into Intensive Care…
Nuriye Gülmen, who has been on a hunger strike along with Semih Özakça to take back her job she was expelled from by a Decree with the Force of Law (KHK) was forced out of her room at Sincan Prison Hospital and sent to Intensive Care unit of Ankara Numune Hospital. It is informed on the report issued by the doctor on duty upon the request of her attorney’s states that her conscious was open and she refused medical treatment.
It is reported that gendarmerie has taken severe precautions on her floor and she is not allowed any visits from her sister who is also her hospital companion and attorneys.
(9/184) Civilian Asylum-Seekers Lost Lives in an Attack in Şemdinli …
It is learned that on September 25, 2017 an attack was carried out by HPG militants against Gendarmerie Command Office near Iraq border in Hakkari’s Şemdinli district. Governorate announced that 1 aslyum seeker who was present at the office yard waiting for asylum procedures was killed and 2 others were heavily injured.
(09/185) Civilian Asylum-Seekers Lost Lives in an Attack in Ağrı …
Governorate of Ağrı announced that on September 25, 2017 the van carrying 10 Afghan refugees who illegally crossed the border was fired guns by a group who were allegedly HPG militants. 3 asylum seekers died and 7 were injured. Governorate also stated that 10 other asylum seekers captured in the same area were detained.
(09/186) Operations and Attacks in Southeast…
It is learned from news coverage of September 25, 2017 that during a clash between HPG militants and armed forces on July 24, 2017 in a rural area of Şırnak’s Beytüşşebap district 6 militants died.
(09/187) Case of Daily Cumhuriyet…
The trial of 20 defendants including Cumhuriyet’s President of Executive Board Akın Atalay, journalists Kadri Atalay and Ahmet Şık who are among the arrested 6, continued September 25, 2017, in the court room built outside Silivri Prison. The case was opened by İstanbul Heavy Penal Court No. 27. Following the hearings of defendants’ testimonies and attorney’s defenses, the court ruled for the release of Kadri Gürsel with pending tiral. The court ruled for the continuity of remaining 5 defendants and adjourned the trial date to October 31, 2017. The court also issued criminal complaints for tweets by Akşam and Star newspapers which reportedly wrote about court decisions before the verdict.
After the first trial on July 24, 2017 following names were released: Güray Öz, Hakan Kara, Musa Kart, Turhan Günay, Bülent Utku, Mustafa Kemal Güngör and Önder Çelik.
(09/188) HDP MP Detained…
HDP Şırnak MP Leyla Birlik was detained from her house in Şırnak with a claim that there is a warrant order for her. Birlik was released after her testimony at Şırnak Courthouse.
(09/189) Journalist Detained in İstanbul…
It is learned that 3 people including FOSEM employee Merak Gökoğlu remain in detention at İstanbul Police Headquarters. All 3 were detained during a police raid on September 24, 2017 to an album signing event of Grup Yorum band at İdil Culture Center in İstanbul Okmeydanı. It is reported that while some detainees who were physically abused during detention were released, 3 people were kept because of arrest warrants. It is learned that 3 people are prohibited from contacting their lawyers. It is also learned that Nagehan Kurt, mother of one of the detainees Bahar Kurt, was also detained when she went to the police station to bring her daughter some belongings.
(09/190) Police Intervention Towards Press Briefing in Samsun…
It is learned that on September 25, 2017 police intervened to a press briefing and detained 5 people including 2 women. The crowd was gathered in Atakum district of Samsun to protest new national education curriculum.
(09/191) Detentions for Social Media Posts…
It is learned that on September 25, 2017 gendarmerie soldier V.A. was detained due to alleged PKK propaganda through his social media posts.
It is learned that on September 25, 2017 Mersin 4th Enforcement Manager A.B. detained due to social media posts.
(09/192) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that 31 of 33 people issued with detention requests were detained in İzmir due to alleged ByLock usage.
(09/193) HDP MP’s on Trial…
HDP Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtaş’s trial based on the accusations of ‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘endorsing crime and criminals’’ filed by Elazığ Heavy Criminal Court No. 2 continued on September 25, 2017. Demirtaş did not attend the trial as he refused to attend through SEGBİS. Supreme Court rejected the request for the Constitutional Court to investigate suitability of KHK legislation no 694 to the constitution. The court also ruled that if Demirtaş refuses to attend the next trial through SEGBİS it would be treated as a right to remain silent and adjourned the trial date to February 13, 2018.
HDP Diyarbakır MP İdris Baluken’s trial filed by Heavy Criminal Court No. 2 based on the accusations of ‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘endorsing crime and criminals’’ through a speech he
gave in Elazığ in 2012, continued on September 25, 2017. Baluken did not attend the trial citing health issues. The court ruled that if Baluken refuses to attend the next trial through SEGBİS it would be treated as a right to remain silent and adjourned the trial date to February 15, 2018.
(09/194) HDP Executive on Trial…
The trial for arrested defendant HDP Party Assembly member Ercan Aslan, former Bağlar Mayor Yüksel Baran and defendant Hamide Yüksel released by pending trial, started on September 25, 2017. The case filed at Diyarbakır Heavy Penal Court No. 9. Following identification checks and reading of the indictment, defendants read their defenses. Hamide Yüksel attended the trial through SEGBİS from Ağrı Type E prison, as she was arrested from a different case. Yüksel declared she would not testify through SEGBİS. Following the hearing of defenses, the court ruled for the release of Ercan Aslan with judiciary control condition and adjourned the meeting to December 2017.
(09/195) Trials Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
The final hearing for the trial of 12 defendants including 3 arrested was carried out on September 25, 2017. The court was filed by Sivas Heavy Penal Court No. 2. For arrested defendants, the court ruled for sentences between 3 years 9 months and 7 years 3 months. 4 defendants with pending trials were sentenced to 3 years 1 months to 9 years 2 months. 4 defendants were released. 1 defendants file was excluded from the case.
It is learned from news coverage of September 26, 2017 that Court Cassation approved the 10 years’ sentence for Metin Özçelik and Mustafa Başer despite the appellate review. Özçelik and Başer were semtenced 10 years of imprisonment for ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’ and ‘‘jobbery’’. The decision of Cassation showed that ByLock usage only could be enough evidence for conviction with illegal organization membership.
(09/196) TV Channels Removed from Turksat Satellite…
It is learned that Turkish Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) gathered for an emergency meeting on September 25, 2017 and decided to remove Northern Iraq-based television channels — K24 TV, WAAR TV and Rudaw TV – from satellite Turksat. Officials declared that the reason for the decision was the lack of license for these channels. Following the written submission of RTÜK’s decision to Turksat the channels will be officially removed.
(09/197) Events Banned in City …
Governorate of Ankara declared on September 25, 2017 that it is prohibited to loudly sing, chant, protest, gather for press briefings or any other events in all central location of Çankaya district.
27 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/198) Trial of October 10 Ankara Massacre…
The trial of 36 defendants of which 19 are arrested and 16 are fugitive, continued on September 25-27 2017. The case was opened by Ankara 4th Heavy Penal Court. Following the death of defendant Mehmet Kadir Cebael the number of defendants lowered to 35.
Defendants, defendant lawyers, complainants and complainant attorneys were present at the trial. KESK co-chairs and executives of unions tied to KESK also some HDP and CHP MP’s were present.
Complainant attorneys requested the police officers mentioned in defendant Suphi Alpfidan’s testimony to be listened in person and not through SEGBİS. Attorneys also requested hearings for Ankara Governor of the time Mehmet Kılıçlar, Police Chief Kadri Kartal, MIT and other executives who attended the coordination meeting. Attorneys also declared that crime scene investigation was problematic. It was said that police officers firing guns to air and firing tear gas during crime scene investigation continued caused security concerns.
It is reported that some defendants were at times verbally abusive towards complainants and complainant attorneys. One of the defendant attorneys reportedly said ‘‘everybody will know their place’’. It is learned that complainant attorneys filed complaints for insults.
The court ruled for the continuity of arrests and requested in person hearings of police officers Beyazıt Bestami Duman and Tahir Sarıışık. The court adjourned the trial date to 22-23 November, 2017 and overruled the request to call government executives.
(09/199) Suicide of Suspended Police Officer in Adapazarı…
It is learned that a İbrahim Eski, a police officer suspended through ‘FETÖ/PYD investigation’, committed suicide on September 26, 2017 in Adapazarı.
(09/200) Operations and Attacks in Southeast…
It is learned that on September 26, 2017 near Boyunlu village of Diyarbakır’s Kocaköy district, a car carrying Gendarmerie Commander Harun Yılmaz was under open fire coming from another vehicle. The governorate declared that 1 soldier died and 2 soldiers including the Commander were injured.
It is learned from news coverage of September 27, 2017 that the forest fires started during military operations near Tendürek Mountain in Ağrı, continue to expand and it has not been intervened.
(09/201) Bombed Attack Towards Van Municipality Building…
It is learned that unidentified people carried out a bomb attack towards Municipality building in Van, with handmade explosives. No deaths or injuries occurred.
(09/202) Arrested People’s Law Office Attorneys…
It is learned that 14 attorneys detained on September 12, 2017 and later arrested on September 20, 2017 were transferred from Silivri prison to 8 different prisons on September 22, 2017. Behiç Ahçı and Aytaç Ünsan were sent to Burhaniye Type T Prison, Şükriye Erdem and Didem Ünsal were sent to Karabük Type T Prison, , Naciye Demir, Barkın Timtik and Zehra Özdemir were sent to Bolu Type F Prison, Ebru Timtik and Yağmur Evin were sent to Balıkesir Type T Prison, Aycan Çiçek and Ayşegül Çağatay were sent to Düzce Type T Prison, Süleyman Gökten was sent to Tekirdağ No 1 Type F Prison, Engin Gökoğlu was sent to Tekirdağ No 2 Type F Prison and Özgür Yılmaz was sent to Edirne Type F Prison.
It is learned from the statements of attorneys that met with defendant attorneys, in news coverage of September 26, 2017 that Attorney Özgür Yılmaz has been placed in a solitary cell in Edirne Type F Prison and have not been provided any basic needs including water. Yılmaz was therefore forced to drink water from a tap.
(09/203) Torture and Ill-Treatment in Prison
Attorney Günfer Karadeniz declared on her statement to press on September 26, 2017 that severe right violations have been taking place in Muğla E Type Prison. It is learned that prisoners meeting hours with attorneys are restricted, meetings are recorded with video cameras, prisoners are forced to be searched naked when returning from hospital, attorney visits or trials, prisoners are forced to stay in line in military fashion during roll calls. Attorney Karadeniz also stated that prisoners who refuse to sign a sheet prepared by the administration that writes ‘‘I have no relation left with the illegal organization’’, are stripped from their right to probation granted by the execution judge. It is learned that the executional judgement committee decides on the probations based on a report prepared by a committee including prison manager and wardens.
Attorneys meeting with prisoners in Tekirdağ F Type Prison No 2 Prison stated to press on September 27, 2017 that books sent to prisoners are restricted or delayed, prisoners with medical conditions are not sent to medical facilities by saying ‘‘transfers to hospitals are lifted’’, prisoners are restrained from cultural, sportive and social activities, prisoners going to hospital or trials are forced to naked searches with video cameras present.
It is learned from news coverage of September 27, 2017 that 12 prisoners who were transferred from
Adana Kürkçüler F Type Prison to Tarsus T Type Prison were physically abused by wardens when they refused to be searched naked. It is also learned that personal belongings of these prisoners were kept by the administration. It is learned that one the abused prisoners is Deniz Özdemir, who was forced out of his cell and told he had a trial but was rather sent to Diyarbakır Gendarmerie Command Office, where he was subject to ill-treatment for 10 days. During 10 days, Özdemir was also forced to become a confessor.
(09/204) Hunger Strike in Prison…
It is learned from news coverage of September 27, 2017 that prisoners in Tekirdağ F Type Prison No 2 have been in a hunger strike with groups of 6 to 10 prisoners in 3 day rotations.
(09/205) ) Rejection of Meeting Request with Öcalan…
It is learned that on September 26, 2017 PKK Leader Abdullah Öcalan’s attorneys Rezan Sarıca, Cengiz Çiçek and Serbay Köklü requested from Bursa Public Prosecutor’s Office to meet with him. The request was denied on the same day based on limitations regarding the convicted prisoners due to Law on the Execution of Criminal and Security Measures Number 5275. With this latest declined meeting requests with Öcalan have been denied for the 689th time.
(09/206) Police Intervention Towards ‘‘I Want My Job Back’’ demonstrations in Ankara…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a press meeting in front of the Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 26, 2017. The resistance of the group has been going on for a certain period of time. Two meetings planned at 13.00 and 18.00 respectively were both prevented by the police forces who clocked entrance to the street by barriers. No detentions occurred.
(09/207) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that on September 26, 2017 through a Sivas based investigation 31 soldiers including 29 regular soldiers and 1 police officer was detained, 17 people including doctors, nurses and health technicians in Konya were detained, through an Ankara based investigation 15 of 34 people with detention requests were detained, through a Siirt based investigation 27 people were detained.
It is reported that on September 26, 2017 2 discharged soldiers in Manisa were detained during a traffic control and later arrested.
It is learned that through a Çanakkale based investigation on September 19, 2017, 25 people were detained. On September 26, 2017, 6 people were sent to court. 4 were arrested and 2 were released with a judiciary control condition.
It is learned that 15 former MIT employees discharged through an investigation on September 12, 2017 and onwards, were sent to court on September 26, 2017. MIT employees were discharged with a KHK legislation (Decree with the Force of Law). Following the court, 14 were arrested and 1 was released with a judiciary control condition. 63 former MIT employees were filed detention requests through this investigation.
It is learned that 7 people detained on September 18, 2017 in Istanbul were sent to court on September 26, 2017. 6 people were arrested and 1 person was released with a judiciary control condition.
(09/208) Trials of HDP MP’s…
The trial of HDP co-chair Selahattin Demirtaş for ‘‘insulting an officer’’ and ‘‘deforcing an officer in the execution of his duty’’ during a visit in Urfa on 2013, continued September 26, 2017. The case was filed by Viranşehir Penal Court of First Instance No. 1. Demirtal refused to attend the trial through SEGBİS. The court ruled that if Demirtaş refuses to attend the next trial through SEGBİS it would be treated as a right to remain silent and adjourned the trial to a further date.
(09/209) Trial of Artist Pınar Aydınlar…
The appeal trial for the conviction of artist Pınar Aydınlar and HDP Executive Hacay Yılmaz continued on September 26, 2017 in İzmir Regional Court of Justice . Aydınlar and Yılmaz had been both sentenced to 2
years 1 month for ‘‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’ by İzmir Heavy Penal Court No. 2. Aydınlar attended the trial through SEGBİS. Following the defenses and prosecution verdict, court overruled the first verdict and sentenced each defendant to 10 months without any postponement.
(09/210) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
The trial of discharged Public Prosecutor of Samsun continued on September 26, 2017. Ateş was discharged due to alleged ByLock usage and his case was filed at Samsun Heavy Penal Court No. 2. After defenses, the court ruled for the continuity of Ateş’s arrest and adjourned the trial to a further date.
The final hearing for the trial of Erdal Şenetiler, a former teacher, took place in Erzurum Heavy Penal Court No. 2 on September 27, 2017. Şenetiler was accused with ‘‘forming and leading an illegal organization’’ The court sentenced Şenetiler to 6 years 3 months due to ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’.
(09/211) House Raid Towards HDP MP’s House…
HDP Şırnak MP Aycan İrmez’s house was raided by police officers on September 26, 2017. The raid was justified by the police due to a capture request filed for İrmez. İrmez was not detained because she wasn’t present in the house.
29 September 2017 Daily Human Rights Report
(09/234) Trial of Nuriye Gülmen and Semih Özakça…
Second trial of expelled academic Nuriye Gülmen, educator Semih Özakça and other defendant who is not arrested Acun Karadağ, continued on Ankara 19th Heavy Penal Court on September 28, 2017. Arrested defendant Semih Özakça and Acun Karadağ were both present at the trial. Nuriye Gülmen was not brought to court. Gülmen was transferred to Sincan Prison Hospital two days before the trial, against her will. Gülmen’s request to attend the trial was rejected by the hospital authority as it was seen ‘‘medically not possible’’.
The court limited the number of viewers for the trial to 30 although the capacity of the courtroom is 80. CHP and HDP MPs, representatives human rights organizations and Veli Saçılık were present in the court room.
It is reported that police intervened to those waiting outside the courtroom with rubber bullets. During the clashes one person was detained and later released.
The court requested from Karadağ and Özakça to select 3 attorneys and declared that it would not hear any further number of attorneys. Both Özakça and Karadağ resisted the decision deeming it an assault towards defense rights but the court overruled their objection.
Semih Özakça made his defense at the court. Acun Karadağ refused to defend himself before Nuriye Gülmen is also brought to court.
TIHV Secretary General Metin Bakkalcı was listened as a medical expert witness and spoke on the doctor treatments and continuing hunger strike of defendants.
Following the defenses of the attorneys the court ruled for the continuity of both Gülmen and Özakça’s arrests and adjourned the trial to October 20, 2017. The trial will take place in a facility within Sincan Prison. The court also requested to hear Berk Ercan as a witness. Ercan will attend the trial through SEGBİS. The court also ruled for Nuriye Gülmen to attend the trial, with medical equipment if necessary, or testify from her current location.
(09/235) Civilians Killed and Injured in Hakkari AUAV During Attack…
On August 31, 2017 3 people were injured and 1 died in Kanireş region near Hakkari’s Oğul village following a bomb attack from an armed unmanned aerial vehicle (AUAV). It is learned that İsmail Aydın who was heavily wounded from his stomach and foot stayed in the hospital for 28 days and is now discharged from the hospital. Aydın stated to press on September 29, 2017 that they were in the area to have a picnic and
passed a police control point in Depin. Aydın said that right after their arrival 4 people without uniforms approached and warned them to leave the area saying it is ‘forbidden’. According to Aydın, shortly after this the explosion happened.
Musa Tarhan and İbrahim Sak who were both injured in the same incident were detained on September 2, 2017 and were arrested on September 8, 2017 before their medical treatment was finalized. Both are arrested due to ‘‘helping and harboring an illegal organization’’.
(09/236) Operations and Attacks in Southeast…
It is learned that 1 village guard died and 2 were injured during a clash between armed forces and HPG militant in a rural area near Ağrı’s Doğubayazıt district. It is learned that 1 soldier died and 4 soldiers were injured during a clash in Kanimasi, a district in Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government which close to Hakkari’s Çukurca district.
It is learned that on September 26, 2017 3 militants died during an air strike and land strike in a rural area of Hakkari. It is learned that 3 militants died during a clash between HPG militants and armed forces in Adil Beg, a zone within Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government borders.
(09/237) Torture and Ill-Treatment in Prison…
News report from September 29, 2017 claimed that a prisoner named Halil Yılmaz (26) with 50% mental disability was tortured and subject to ill-treatment in Denizli Type T Prison. It is learned that Yılmaz is charged with 12 years due ‘membership of an illegal organization’. According to his brother Celal Yılmaz, Halil Yılmaz was forced take of his clothes and tortured.
On September 29, 2017 spouse of a prisoner in Silivri Type no 2, Betül Özdemir declared to press that her husband and another prisoner were tortured in prison. According to Özdemir, Mehmet Özdemir and Mazlum Aslan’s cells were raided by wardens and then 2 prisoners were handcuffed from behind, they were sent to isolation cells where they were abused physically. Betül Özdemir stated that her husband had bruises on his face, hands and arms.
News coverage from September 29, 2017 reported that a prisoner named Mert Avcı in Tekirdağ No1 Type T prison was physically abused by the wardens. It is reported that the wardens raided a cell where 8 prisoners stay and assaulted prisoners. During the incident, Mert Avcı passed out due to hits towards his neck and crotch. It is also reported that prisoners filed a criminal complaint regarding the incident.
(09/238) Rejection of Meeting Request with Öcalan…
It is learned that on September 28, 2017 PKK Leader Abdullah Öcalan’s brother and sister along with families of Ömer Hayri Konar and Veysel Aktaş who are both prisoners in Imrali, requested from Bursa Public Prosecutor’s Office to meet with them. The request was denied on the same day based on limitations regarding the convicted prisoners due to Law on the Execution of Criminal and Security Measures Number 5275.
(09/239) Arrested co-Mayor…
Sevinç Bozan, co-Mayor of Mardin’s Artuklu district who had been detained on September 14, 2017, was arrested due to ‘‘membership of an illegal organization’’ on September 28, 2017. A trustee was appointed by the government in Bozan’s place in December 13, 2017.
(09/240) Police Operation Towards DHKPC…
It is learned that 12 people detained on September 12, 2017 and onwards were arrested on September 28, 2017 by the court in Istanbul they were sent to. Names of the arrested detainees are: Bahar Kurt, Nagihan Kurt, Ulaş İnci, Selda Özçelik, Deniz Özçelik, Dilek Kaya, Yurdagül Gümüş, Celal Akgün, Abdullah Özgün, Aslıhan Burçaklar, İlyas Argun, Fikret Akar. It is also learned that sister of Bergün Varan who also appeared in front of the court through this investigation is also detained and sent to İstanbul Police Headquarters.
(09/241) Police Intervention Towards ‘‘I Want My Job Back’’ demonstrations in Ankara…
Civil servants discharged from their jobs with KHK legislations planned for a press meeting in front of the
Human Rights Monument in Ankara Yüksel Street on September 28, 2017. The resistance of the group has been going on for a certain period of time. Two meetings planned at 13.00 and 18.00 respectively were both prevented by the police forces who clocked entrance to the street by barriers. No detentions occurred. Arm of a woman making a peace sign was twisted by a police officer.
(09/242) Detentions and Arrests in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
It is learned that on September 28, 2017 15 people including regular soldiers were detained in Aydın, 36 people were detained in Bursa.
It is reported that through an İzmir based investigation detention requests were filed for 98 regular soldiers and 19 discharged soldiers. It is learned that operations began in 45 cities to detain these soldiers.
It is learned that Celal Çelik attorney of CHP leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, was released from detention with an overseas travel ban on September 28, 2017. Çelik was detained on September 15, 2017.
It is reported that 5 of 7 people detained in Bayburt on September 25, 2017 were arrested on September 28, 2017.
(09/243) Trial of former HDP co-Chair…
Former HDP co-chair Figen Yüksekdağ’s trial in İzmir Heavy Penal Court No 2 continued on September 28, 2017. Figendağ was accused with ‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’ due a speech she gave in İzmir in 2016. Yüksekdağ did not attend the trial as she refused to attend it through SEGBİS. Attorneys requested the case to be merged with Yüksekdağ’s other case in Ankara Heavy Penal Court No 16 where she is accused with ‘membership of an illegal organization’ and ‘making propaganda of an illegal organization’. The court accepted the request and adjourned the trial to a further date.
(09/244) Trial of HDP MP’s…
The trial of HDP Şırnak MP’s Ferhat Encü, Leyal Birlik, Aycan İrmez and Batman MP Mehmet Ali Aslan continued on September 28, 2017. MP’s were accused with ‘breaching special security zone’ by Şırnak Heavy Penal Court No 2. Ferhat Encü attended the trial through SEGBİS, other MP’s did not attend. Following the defenses the court adjourned the trial to January 25, 2018.
It is learned that HDP Muş MP Burcu Çelik issued a criminal complaint to Muş Public Prosecutors Office. Çelik was reportedly verbally accused by village guards during her visit to Sungu and Karaağaç villages in Muş on the June 7,2015 election day. A case was also opened against Çelik at the Muş Heavy Penal Court No 1 due to a speech she made about the village guards on June 8, 2017. Çelik is arrested for this speech and she is on trial for the case.
(09/245) Trial of Van Co-Mayor…
The trial of Van Co-Mayor Bekir Kaya and 10 other municipality employees continued on September 28, 2017. Kaya and municipality workers are on trial because the fire department of Van reportedly didn’t intervene the fire during Kobane incidents in 2014. The case was opened by Van Penal Court of First Instance No 3. Defendants who are not arrested were present at the trial. Bekir Kaya attended the trial through SEGBİS from Silivri Prison. Following the defenses, the court ruled for mandatory hearings of witnesses Chamber of Commerce President Necdet Takva and former ESOB president Faruk Alpaslan. The court adjourned the trial to December 14, 2017.
(09/246) Trial of Bitlis co-Mayor…
The final hearing of Bitlis co-Mayor Hüseyin Okan at Bitlis Heavy Penal Court No 2 took place on September 28, 2017. Hüseyin Olan attended the trial through SEGBİS from Elazığ Type F Prison. Following the defenses, the court sentenced Olan with 7 years 6 months due to ‘membership of an illegal organization’. A trustee was appointed in Olan’s place by the government following his arrest in November 25, 2016.
(09/247) Trial of Journalist in Mardin …
The trial of 9 people including now closed DİHA’s reporter Abdülkadir Turay contunied on September 28, 2017. 9 people were charged with ‘membership of an illegal organization’ by Mardin Heavy Penal Court No
2. Following the defenses the court ruled for the continuity of arrests for all defendants and adjourned the trial to October 6, 2017. Abdülkadir Turay was arrested on May 9, 2016.
(09/248) 3 People on Trial for HES Protests in Artvin…
The trial of Semra Ìskender, Fethi Ìskender and Ayla Aydın continued on September 28, 2017 in Artvin Penal Court of First Instance. Defendants were protesting Kavak HES Project and earth movers entering lands that haven’t been expropriated. The court found defendant guilty of ‘crimes against freedom of conducting business and freedom of labor’ and charged all three with 3.000 TL penalties.
(09/249) Trial for the Incident in Aysel Tuğluk’s Mother’s Funeral…
It is learned that Ankara public prosecutor’s Office prepared an indictment for 19 people regarding the incident during HDP Vice Co-Chair Aysel Tuğluk’s mother’s funeral on September 12, 2017. Indictment requests up to 10 years of jail time for defendants due to ‘violation of freedom of faith, thought and opinion’, ‘violation of right to assembly and demonstration’ and ‘assault’. It is reported that a non-prosecution decision was made for the police officers present during the incident.
Following the incident 26 people were detained. 3 of 26 were arrested for ‘violation of freedom of faith, thought and opinion’ and ‘violation of right to assembly and demonstration’. 23 people were released 4 of which with judiciary control condition.
(09/250) Trials in Connection with the Coup d’État Attempt…
The final hearing of Alpaslan Yiğit took place in Erzurum Heavy Penal Court No 2 on September 28, 2017. Yiğit was allegedly an imam and ‘confidential henchman’ for the organization. Yiğit who is in Van High Security Penal Institution attended the trial through SEGBİS. The court sentenced Yiğit to 15 years due to ‘forming and leading an illegal organization’ and ruled for the continuity of his arrest.
The final hearing of 12 defendants on trial with ‘membership of an illegal organization’ in Afyon Heavy Penal Court No 2 took place on September 28, 2017. The court sentenced 10 defendants to 3 years 9 months and 9 years 9 months. 1 defendant was released and 1 defendant’s case was separated. The court also released 3 defendants with judiciary control condition as they benefited from effective remorse law.
The trial of 73 defendants including Fettullah Gülen, by Ankara 4th Heavy Penal Court continued on September 28, 2017. Following the defenses the court ruled for the contunoity of arrests and adjourned the trial to November 28-29, 2017.
The trial of 28 defendants including Coast Guard Commander Hakan Üstem, continued September 28, 2017 in Heavy Penal Court No 17. The court accepted Prime Ministry’s request for involvement in the case. Prosecution revealed the indictment and requested heavy life sentences for 27 defendants due to ‘attempting to overthrow the constitutional order’, ‘“attempting to overthrow the Parliament’, ‘“attempting to overthrow the government and preventing it from functioning’. Prosecution requested 7 years and 6 months for one defendant due to ‘destroying, hiding, manipulating evidence’. The court overruled and adjourned the meeting to October 17, 2017.
It is learned that Sinop Mayor Yasemin Özata’s husband, former Colonel Temel Çetinkaya, was arrested following an objection towards his release.
(09/251) Blocked Internet News…
It is learned that following a request from AKP Kahramanmaraş MP Celalettin Güvenç, all news, social media posts, sale links about the book by Odatv News Chief Barış Terkoğlu and Editor in Chief Barış Pehlivan, are blocked. The book is called “Mahrem: Gizli Belgelerde Türkiye’nin Sırları” (Confidential: Secrets of Turkey Through Classified Documents