Sorrow in İskeçe: Respected businessman, politician Hüseyin Bandak passes away

Hüseyin Bandak, former district head of Koyunköy in İskeçe and one of the most beloved figures of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority, lost his life in a tragic traffic accident.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening, December 7, on the road between Koyunköy and Sakarkaya. Bandak was traveling from Koyunköy toward Sakarkaya on his motorcycle when he was struck from behind by a speeding car. The impact reportedly caused him to be dragged nearly 100 meters.

Emergency services were dispatched to the scene, but Bandak was pronounced dead at the site of the accident. 

Following the devastating news, his family, relatives and many members of the community gathered at İskeçe State Hospital seeking information. 

Among those present were prominent community leaders including Mustafa Trampa, President of the Advisory Board of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority and Mufti of İskeçe; Hüseyin Baltacı, President of the Western Thrace Minority Graduates Association; regional council member Fatih İsmailko; and Ozan Ahmetoğlu, President of the School Board of the İskeçe Minority Middle & High School.

According to initial reports, the driver of the vehicle fled the scene, heading toward the village of Gökçeler. It was also reported that a passenger in the same car died due to injuries sustained in the crash. Police later apprehended the driver and took him into custody.

A Community in mourning

Known for his strong support of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority cause, his leadership during the processes concerning the Koyunköy Mosque, and his contributions to the establishment of the Equality List in the Municipality of İskeçe, Hüseyin Bandak was respected not only as a businessman but also for his community engagement and philanthropy. His passing has caused profound grief throughout the Western Thrace Turkish community.

Laid to rest today

The funeral of Hüseyin Bandak, a well-known businessman and former district head of Koyunköy, will be held on Monday, December 8, following the afternoon (asr) prayer, and he will be laid to rest in his hometown of Koyunköy.

Condolences from the Advisory Board of the Turkish Minority

Following Bandak’s passing, Mustafa Trampa, President of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority Advisory Board and Mufti of İskeçe, issued a message of condolence.