Ozkok Says Mayors Visit is Improper Manner
Replying to questions of reporters about Gen. Yasar Buyukanit's words about this visit during opening ceremony of the NATO Southern Europe Air Elements Command in western province of Izmir, Ozkok said, "Gen. Buyukanit spoke on behalf of the Turkish Armed Forces. What he said about this visit was the common opinion of the Turkish army. This visit was completely an improper conduct. And the ministry has launched the necessary procedures."
After terrorists staged bomb and armed attack on a police post in Diyarbakir on July 28, killing one watchman and injuring one police officer. In the ensuing clash, security forces killed two terrorists and captured two others.
Along with Diyarbakir Mayor Osman Baydemir, several mayors visited the house of one of the terrorists killed in security operations to offer their condolences, drawing harsh reaction of the army, government and several civil organizations.
Gen. Buyukanit who is appointed as the Land Forces Commander earlier told reporters, "it was very shameful to visit the house of a terrorist who killed a security official. Besides, it was not the first of such visits. In the past, similar events occurred, but this time, our public opinion and press showed harsh reaction. I want to thank them on behalf of the security forces."
The Diyarbakir Governor's Office indicted those mayors and the Interior Ministry launched an investigation. (MS-AÖ) (YE)