Ankara Imposes 'State of Siege' for NATO Summit, Detentions Spark Rights Concerns

Ankara is under a de facto state of siege as Turkey prepares to host the 36th NATO Summit on July 7-8. The Ankara Governorship has imposed a ban on all public gatherings, including protests, press conferences, and rallies, from June 28 to July 10. This measure aims to ensure security during the high-profile international event.

The Ankara Police Department has launched "Operation Turquoise," significantly increasing security checks at the capital's entry and exit points. Controls have been intensified in 9 districts, covering 215 separate locations, 151 parks, and 120 venues with 39 teams and 450 personnel. Businesses hosting tourists and delegations, including hotels, are also subject to inspection. Authorities are also targeting beggars, touts, and those soliciting business, alongside increased operations against wanted individuals.

In parallel with these security measures, the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office issued detention warrants for 241 individuals accused of membership in various terrorist organizations. As of recent reports, 209 of these individuals have been detained in early morning operations, which reportedly involved forced entry into homes. Among those detained are lawyers, a spokesperson for Umut-Sen, and the editor-in-chief of Kaos GL. Reports also indicate restrictions on lawyer-client meetings, with detainees held in various police and gendarmerie centers across Ankara.

Adding to the concerns, the Contemporary Lawyers Association (ÇHD) Ankara Branch reported alleged physical abuse of detainees and lawyers. The association claims a police officer pushed a detainee down stairs in front of a lawyer, and the lawyer was subsequently assaulted when protesting. Despite complaints filed against the officer, no action was reportedly taken, and Ankara Bar Association officials were allegedly denied entry to document the situation.

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During the detentions related to NATO, our association's lawyer witnessed their client being pushed down the stairs and falling. When our colleague protested, they were also grabbed by the arm and assaulted.