53 people released from detention on probation

* Photo: Gazete Karınca

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Detained in İstanbul's Kadıköy district on February 4, when they gathered to declare the establishment of the United Struggle Forces platform and express support for the protests against the appointed rector of Boğaziçi University, 53 people have been released by the court on probation.

Eight of the 61 detained were released earlier yesterday (February 8) after giving their statements at the prosecutor's office.

While the 20 of the remaining 53 people were referred to court to be released on probation, the office demanded that 33 people be arrested.

As reported by the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA), the Anadolu Penal Judgeships of Peace in Kartal have released 53 people on probation. 

They have ruled for different judicial control measures such as an "international travel ban", "not leaving the residence" and "giving signature."

What happened?

On February 4, a group of people, including politicians, met in İstanbul's Kadıköy district to issue the founding declaration of the United Struggle Forces platform and to express their support for the ongoing protests of students against the appointed rector of Boğaziçi University.

The police prevented the group from marching to Kadıköy Rıhtım to make a press statement and declare the foundation of the United Struggle Forces. 65 people were battered and detained by the police.

While all roads leading to the area were closed, the area where the statement was to be held was cordoned off with barricades. HDP MPs were also prevented and battered by the police during the intervention.

Four of the detained were released as they were younger than 18.

Interrogated by the police at the Security Branch of the İstanbul Security Directorate, 61 people underwent a medical examination at Bayrampaşa Public Hospital and Eyüpsultan Public Hospital.

Following their medical examination at the public hospitals, they were referred to the İstanbul Anadolu Courthouse in Kartal on February 9. (TP/SD)