Syrians to Protest Against Removal of Refugees from İstanbul

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The Syrians living in İstanbul will hold a protest demonstration against the statement of İstanbul Governorship, which previously announced that the Syrians residing in the city without being registered there have to return to the cities where they are registered on August 20 the latest.

Led by the Association of Free Thought and Education Rights (ÖZGÜR-DER), the Refugee Rights Association and Legists' Association, Syrians living in the city will protest against the decision of the Governorship on July 27. A campaign has also been launched on social media for the protest.

Making a statement about a possible protest demonstration to be held by Syrians yesterday (July 25), Minister of Interior Süleyman Soylu stated, "We will not let anyone do anything."

Governorship has given time till August 20

In its statement on July 22, the Governorship stated the following:

"A time until August 20 has been given for foreigners of Syrian origin under temporary protection who do not have registrations in Istanbul (registered in other provinces) to return to the cities where there are registered.

"Those found not to have gone back will be transferred to the provinces of where there are registered in line with the order of our Interior Ministry."

It also stated that İstanbul is closed to new temporary protection registrations and regular controls for necessary documents will be performed in bus terminals, railroad terminals, airports and all transport centers. (RT/EKN/SD)

* Photograph: AA - Archive