The Lawyers for Freedom Association (ÖHD) has published a report on police interventions across Turkey against those protesting the attacks by forces affiliated with the Damascus regime on Northern and Eastern Syria. The report, prepared by the ÖHD General Headquarters, covered interventions against press statements, marches, and protests held between January 1 and February 2, 2026. Mehmet Öner, manager of the ÖHD General Headquarters, stated in a statement made at the Diyarbakır Branch that the report was prepared based on observations made in the field, interviews with those detained and their families, hospital and court proceedings, and visual recordings. According to the report, at least 49 separate law enforcement interventions took place across the country, at least 840 people were detained, and at least 118 people were arrested. At least 133 people were placed under judicial control. Öner stated that most of the detentions and arrests were made on the grounds of participation in peaceful meetings and demonstrations, and that constitutional rights were effectively suspended. The report found that at least 99 children were detained, 25 children were arrested, and children were subjected to practices such as beating, handcuffing, and being held in custody with adults. It also noted that at least 106 people were beaten, threatened, insulted, and mistreated during or after their detention, and that medical examinations were not conducted in accordance with the rules. ÖHD called for independent and effective investigations into allegations of torture and ill-treatment.
February 3, 2026
bianet