Imam Hatip high school vacated for demolition becomes a 'drug den'

A fire of unknown origin recently broke out at the Tunalı Anatolian Imam Hatip High School, located in the Tunalı neighborhood of the Tepebaşı district, which was vacated a year ago for the construction of a new building, causing alarm among local residents.

The old school, which has been empty for a year, was photographed after the fire. The school building, which has turned into a ruin, was documented following the blaze.

It was observed that doors, windows, and walls were damaged in the school building, which locals describe as "a former place of education that is now a drug den," and that fires were being lit inside.

It is alleged that unidentified individuals enter the school at night, where empty cans of lighter fluid and various chemicals were found on the ground.

"WE WANT A NEW SCHOOL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE"

Dilek Taşdelen, who lives near the school, expressed her anxiety regarding the situation: “We want it to be demolished and a new school built as soon as possible so our children can study in a healthy environment. A fire broke out the other day. Children go inside and steal state-owned books.

My child attends the primary school across the street, and I want this school to be fixed as soon as possible so our children can study here. They broke the windows and the iron bars of the door.

They enter through the broken parts of the door. They climb in and out through the iron bars and windows at the back. The semester ended last year, and it has been like this ever since. They said it would be demolished and a new school would be built, but I don't know how true that is,” she said.

"EVERYONE WHO PASSES BY HERE AT NIGHT IS AFRAID"

Local resident Yunus Vurgucu, stating that the school has become a source of anxiety, said:

“When the fire broke out, the fire department didn't put it out; it burned itself out. Between 6 and 7 in the evening, drug users, those skipping school, or young people come here. It was said that the school would be demolished and a new one built, but it has been in this state for a year. Thieves enter at night and steal the school's cables.

Locals chase away those they can see. Our children are leaving school, and we are worried. Everyone who passes by here at night is afraid. Children cannot pass by alone. If a school is to be built, let it be built as soon as possible; if not, let it be demolished and left as an empty lot.

Those who enter set off firecrackers and the like inside, break windows, steal cables, and use drugs. No one in my family can pass by here alone at night. It is no longer known as a place of education, but as a drug den.”

News Source: İHA