Istanbul

Istanbul Lawyer Arrested After European Council Meeting Claims Detention is Politically Motivated

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Istanbul, Turkey – Fırat Epözdemir, a prominent member of the Istanbul Bar Association Board of Directors, was detained upon his arrival at Istanbul Airport on January 23. Epözdemir had been returning from a meeting at the European Council in Strasbourg, which was focused on defending human rights. Following his detention, Epözdemir was transported to Metris Prison. His arrest has sparked considerable concern among legal professionals and human rights activists, both domestically and internationally. Epözdemir has publicly addressed his arrest via social media, expressing gratitude towards his colleagues and supporters. Notably, he thanked Prof. Dr. İbrahim … Read more

Istanbul Lawyer Arrested on Alleged Connections with Kurdish Militant Group

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Istanbul, Turkey – A prominent lawyer from Istanbul was detained and subsequently arrested by Turkish authorities on charges linked to terrorism, amid intensified scrutiny over alleged connections to the proscribed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Firat Epözdemir, identified as a board member of the Istanbul Bar Association, faces accusations of “membership in an armed terrorist group” and disseminating “terrorist propaganda.” The arrest, which took place on Saturday, follows Epözdemir’s detainment two days prior at Istanbul Airport. The action is part of a broader probe touching on alleged affiliations with the PKK, considered a terrorist organization by … Read more