Police scandal in İskeçe: Disabled minority member mistaken for migrant, allegedly beaten and abandoned
A police officer in İskeçe has been arrested on charges of abuse of power, unlawful detention, and physical assault after allegedly mistaking a hearing- and speech-impaired member of the Turkish Minority for an “illegal migrant,” beating him, and abandoning him in a remote area.
According to the Hellenic Police, the incident took place on the morning of Saturday, September 27. Following a complaint, investigators linked the officer to the case, leading to his arrest and referral to judicial authorities. In an official statement, police stressed that “disciplinary proceedings have also been initiated” and reiterated their “zero-tolerance policy towards conduct incompatible with duty,” pledging to uphold the rule of law and public trust.
Details of the Alleged Abuse
Local sources report that the victim, a 40-year-old member of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority who resides in the village of Sünnetçiköy and also spends time in Germany, was handcuffed by the off-duty officer near the village entrance. Believing him to be an undocumented migrant, the officer allegedly placed the man in the trunk of his car, drove him to a deserted area near the village of Gökçeler, and physically assaulted him before leaving him behind.
The victim, who suffers from health issues, was later found in distress. The allegations have sparked outrage among local residents and rights advocates, who have described the incident as a grave violation of human rights.
Public and Media Reaction
The case has drawn widespread criticism across Western Thrace. Citizens condemned the act on social media, while Greek media outlets labeled the incident “unacceptable,” calling it a critical test for transparency within the police force. Commentators noted that the assault revived broader debates about police violence in Greece, particularly against migrants and minorities.
Minority Representatives Respond
Representatives of the Turkish Minority in Western Thrace, including MPs from İskeçe, strongly denounced the incident. Community organizations and NGOs are expected to issue formal statements in the coming days. Minority leaders stressed that the case is not an isolated incident but reflects deeper issues of discriminatory treatment toward both migrants and minority groups in Greece.
