Several people attacked author Latife Tekin when she questioned the improper acquisition of an archeological site during a panel discussion in Bodrum, Muğla.
Titled "Gümüşlük's problems and Mydos excavations," Tekin attempted to ask a question to the speakers of the meeting if the lands in question should be expropriated or not. She was forced to leave the venue.
Aegean Environment and Culture Foundation (EGEÇEP) condemned the attack and alleged that men who harassed Tekin work for a businessman, Mehmet Durmaz, who bought the land from villagers.
"Tekin is attacked while trying to defend the archaic remains of Mydos, in other words, our cultural heritage. Just like in Allianoi or Hasankeyf, Tekin is targeted by those who profit from exploitation," EGEÇEP spokesperson Esin Kaya said.
Previously, Justice and Development Party member Karabük mayor harassed Tekin during a public discussion, when she criticized the government's energy policies. Her microphone was closed and she was deterred from commenting.
Kaya expressed their support for Tekin, mentioning her sensibility towards environmental issues.(EÖ/AGÜ)