Torture of Israel protesters: 'Beating, strip search...'

Nine young people who protested trade with Israel during a speech by President and AKP Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan were detained after chanting slogans and unfurling banners.

 Halk TV columnist İsmail Saymaz stated that the youths remained in custody for five days due to these actions. Saymaz claimed that if such an act had taken place in Tel Aviv, the protesters would not have been detained.

ARRESTED ON CHARGES OF INSULTING THE PRESIDENT

Although there was no direct insult in the banners or slogans, the youths were arrested on charges of "insulting the president." Saymaz said that a newly appointed judge wearing a headscarf decided on the arrest of the youths.

STRIP SEARCHES OF WOMEN

İsmail Saymaz announced that the three female protesters who were arrested were subjected to strip searches under the name of "cavity searches" and degrading treatment at Silivri F-Type Prison. It was stated that three correctional officers at the prison were suspended from duty due to this treatment.

ALLEGATIONS OF BEATING MALE PROTESTERS  

It was alleged that the male protesters were beaten by Presidential bodyguards and police during the detention process and at the courthouse. Saymaz stated that one protester suffered a serious eye injury and that signs of beating were recorded in medical reports.

LEGAL PROCESS BEGINS 

Saymaz stated that the youths would file a criminal complaint with the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office today and that the allegations of ill-treatment would be evaluated from a legal perspective. He expressed that they would follow up on the allegations of beating, strip searches, and torture throughout this process.