Tensions Arise in Yüksekova: 2 Dead

Tension arose in the southeastern district of Yüksekova near Turkey’s border to Iraq, as protests broke out over the demolition of PKK members graves, leaving two dead. The information was initially declared as two wounded by governor authorities.

“Clashes broke out for 5 minutes between the protestors and the police during the incident and two died. Veysel İşbilir and Mehmet Reşat İşbilir lost their lives,” Ömer Oğuz, Yüksekova Haber reporter, told bianet. 

“Around 5:50 pm local time, several people including Yüksekova mayor and local human rights representatives rushed into Yüksekova Public Hospital to get information on the incident. However, tensions rose in front of the hospital as well. The police broke out people with gas bombs,” he continued.  

Governor’s Office updated statement 

Initially, Hakkari Province Governor’s Office made a statement, informing that two people were wounded in the incident. The statement, however, was updated later on to two dead. 

The statement said the following:

“Around 2:30 pm local time, using molotov cocktails, home-made explosives and fireworks, a group of 25 to 30 people launched a counter-attack on our law enforcement teams after 150 to 160 people assembled in Oslo Crossroads to make a press statement to protest the demolition of ‘so-called’ BTÖ Martyr Graveyards. 

Upon this, riot police broke up protestor groups with tear gas and water cannons. 

One hour after the incident broke out, protestors started firing nearby TOMA vehicles with 8 to 9 long range rifles. 

As the firing caused severely damaged our vehicles, riot police ordered its special ops teams to intervene, resulting clashes with the groups. 

Within the borders of Hakkari province, no such graveyards exist where demolition or interventions are possible. 

Injured after clashing with the police, Veysel İ.(34) and Mehmet R. İ. (32) died during their hospitalization. 

An investigation has been launched concerning the incident. To the public attention." (EKN/BM)