Dink Murder Suspect Hayal Sentenced in Bombing Trial

Yasin Hayal, a suspected instigator of the Hrant Dink murder in 2007, has been tried for the second time in the case regarding the bombing of a McDonald’s branch in Trabzon in 2004.

Second sentence

The Trabzon 1st Heavy Penal Court today (9 April) sentenced Hayal to three years and four months imprisonment, as well as a 183 Lira fine, for his involvement in the bombing that injured six people.

The Northern Express newspaper in Trabzon reported on its website that Hayal had not been brought to the hearing from the prison in Tekirdağ, western Turkey, where is currently held.

The judges found Hayal guilty of using explosives in a way that spread fear, worry and panic among people, of injuring six people by throwing an explosive, and of damaging a person’s car with explosives.

After the bombing on 24 October 2004, Hayal had been arrested. On 17 April 2006, he had been imprisoned to a total of six years and eight months imprisonment for making an explosive, injuring people and damaging the environment. However, he was released from prison after 11 months.

The 8th Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court of Appeals had approved the punishment for producing an explosive, but had reevaluated the punishment given for injury and damage to the environment.

Murder trial continues in Istanbul

In the Hrant Dink murder case, Hayal stands accused of creating an armed criminal group, instigating a premeditated murder and violating Law 6136 on guns. The trial at the Istanbul 14th Heavy Penal Court continues on 20 April. (EÖ/AG)