He died after being beaten in Esenyurt... Statement from his lawyer: 'Steps are being taken in favor of the perpetrator'

As the investigation continues into the murder of journalist and environmental activist Hakan Tosun, who was severely beaten in the middle of the street in Esenyurt on October 10 and passed away on October 13, his lawyers have made significant statements. The lawyers for Tosun's family expressed serious concerns regarding deficiencies in the investigation and the procedures being followed.

“THE WAY IS BEING PAVED FOR AN UNJUST PROVOCATION REDUCTION”

The lawyers alleged that steps are being taken during the investigation process to mitigate the sentences of the perpetrators. Lawyer Onur Cingil stated that the language used in official responses creates a foundation favorable to the attackers. Cingil said, “We see that certain statements will be included in the indictment. This approach appears to be a design that could pave the way for an 'unjust provocation' reduction for the attackers.”

THE VAST MAJORITY OF EVIDENCE HAS NOT BEEN COLLECTED

The lawyers stated that they have only been able to access three of the 25 pieces of evidence they requested so far, indicating that the investigation is progressing weakly. Lawyer Hakan Bozyurt highlighted the following deficiencies: “Not all camera recordings from the scene were obtained. The statements of the people who called 112 have still not been taken. There are serious gaps regarding the HTS records of the suspects. Furthermore, camera footage from surrounding businesses was lost because it was not obtained in time.”

Bozyurt expressed his concerns about the investigation process, saying, “The majority of the evidence was either never collected or was lost because of delays. This situation prevents the investigation from proceeding in a healthy manner.”

CONTRADICTIONS AT THE GREENGROCER

The lawyers also noted that the reports regarding the greengrocer, which is allegedly operated by a relative of one of the suspects, are noteworthy. Cingil stated, “The report claimed that 'the camera is not recording,' but this contradicts information obtained by journalists in the area. The report claims the business was closed, but there is an inconsistency with previous information.”

QUESTION MARKS REGARDING THE GLASS BOTTLE DETAIL

Contradictory statements regarding the glass bottle Hakan Tosun was holding during the beating were also brought to the agenda. The lawyers said, “It could not be explained how the bottle ended up in Tosun's hand. Official authorities gave a response saying, 'he might have taken it out of his bag,' but this explanation is insufficient.” They further added, “It is not logical for a glass bottle in the bag of a person who fell on the Metrobus to remain exactly the same without any breakage.”

The lawyers stated that there are serious doubts regarding the identity of a third person mentioned in the investigation and that merely questioning this person as a witness is not enough. Cingil said, “This person's connections and posts should have been investigated. However, it was limited to just a statement. There is even a possibility that they may have fled.”

CALL TO “NOT COVER UP THE TRUTH”

Cingil and Bozyurt pointed out that the investigation is progressing due to public pressure, stating, “This process is being carried out not only with the support of the lawyers but with the support of all journalists and the public.” The lawyers emphasized that every new piece of evidence could change the course of the case and that the investigation must be conducted meticulously.