Diyarbakır: 'Honor Killing' Allegations Resurface in 8-Year-Old Cold Case; One Arrested

A murder investigation, initially closed eight years ago, has been reopened in Turkey's Diyarbakır province following claims of a "töre cinayeti" (honor killing).

The case involves R.A., who reported that Ceylan Aktepe and Arif Uğurlu eloped in 2010 and were never heard from again. An initial investigation in 2014 concluded there was insufficient evidence to pursue the case, with statements suggesting the couple had gone abroad. However, the file was reopened after Arif Uğurlu's father, Mehmet Uğurlu, stated his belief that his son had been murdered.

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The couple was killed by a decision from tribal elders and their bodies disposed of in caves.

Further investigation by the prosecutor's office revealed that the couple had no contact with public institutions, no bank account activity, and had not used their mobile phones or contacted relatives since their disappearance. This lack of activity contradicted the earlier assumption of them going abroad.

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Arif Uğurlu was beaten to death, and Aktepe was shot in the head.

During a recent operation, 20 suspects were detained. Intelligence reports suggest the couple was killed by a decision from tribal elders and their bodies disposed of in caves. Human remains, believed to be theirs, were discovered in three different caves and have been sent to the Forensic Medicine Institute for analysis. DNA samples have been collected from relatives.

Secret witness testimonies have emerged, alleging that the couple was handed over to tribal members after being apprehended and subsequently executed. One witness claimed to have heard that the couple was killed after being found. Another secret witness stated that the couple was captured, Uğurlu was beaten to death, and Aktepe was shot in the head. Tape recordings from surveillance have also been entered into evidence, reportedly discussing how to shift blame and containing statements that confirm the killings and knowledge of the event's details. Twelve suspects have been arrested on charges related to honor killings.

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R. surrender, R. take responsibility.