Scandalous arrest in Western Thrace: Five Turks handcuffed for paving Mosque courtyard
As part of ongoing pressure and intimidation tactics, Greek authorities arrested five members of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace over a minor construction activity, sparking outrage among the local community.
Arrests in Karacaoğlan Village Over Simple Renovation
On February 13, in the village of Karacaoğlan, located in the Kozlukebir Municipality of Rhodope, Greek police detained the chairman of the mosque’s trustee board and four other individuals for paving the courtyard of the local mosque.
According to reports, the detainees were initially taken to the Sirrkelis Police Station before being transferred to Komotini. The five individuals spent the night in detention and were brought before the court in handcuffs on February 14. Following their court appearance, they were released, but the trial was postponed to February 24 upon the request of their lawyer.
Widespread Reaction from the Turkish Minority
Upon their arrival at the Komotini Courthouse, the detainees were met with support from Karacaoğlan villagers, Rhodope MP Özgür Ferhat, Yassıköy Mayor Caner Imam, Deputy Mayor Kubilay Manko, and Kozlukebir Municipality Opposition Leader Tarkan Multaza.
This incident has been condemned by the Turkish minority in Western Thrace as another example of systematic oppression. The Greek state, which continues to deny the identity and rights of the Turkish community, has once again come under fire for its repressive policies.
Critics argue that the arrests over such a minor matter, along with the unnecessary use of handcuffs, reflect authoritarian practices more commonly seen in undemocratic regimes. The incident has raised concerns about the ongoing pressure on the Turkish minority in Greece, with many calling for international organizations to take action.
As reactions continue to mount, Western Thrace Turks are closely monitoring the situation and are considering measures to bring the issue to the attention of the international community.
