Scandalous defense from contractor of site that became a grave for 115 people in earthquake: He blamed those who lost their lives

The trial of 3 defendants, 2 of whom are in custody, each facing up to 22 years and 6 months in prison in connection with blocks 1 and 3 of the Penta Park Site, where 115 people lost their lives in the February 6 earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş, continued yesterday (July 12).

The second hearing at the Kahramanmaraş 2nd High Criminal Court was attended by the defendant contractor, Penta Park AŞ Chairman of the Board Mesut Başkır, the accounting manager, and operations manager Özcan Çakmak, as well as the families of those who lost their loved ones in the earthquake and their lawyers.

SCANDALOUS DEFENSE FROM CONTRACTOR: HE BLAMED THE EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS

During the hearing, defendant Mesut Başkır stated that he was not guilty, saying, "I am not guilty. Those who did not apply for building inspection to see if the buildings were earthquake-resistant are the guilty ones. I request my acquittal."

The other defendants also stated that they were not guilty and requested their acquittal. The court panel decided to continue the detention of the imprisoned defendants and adjourned the hearing to November.

HE WAS CAUGHT WHILE ESCAPING BY BOAT

Following the February 6 earthquake disaster, an arrest warrant was issued for Mesut Başkır, who was caught while trying to escape to the Greek islands by sailboat off the coast of Marmaris, Muğla.

News Source: 12punto