Released suspect detained again after footage emerges of attack on disabled man

Security-camera footage showing the assault of a 55-year-old man with hearing and speech disabilities has led to the renewed detention of a 19-year-old suspect in Adana’s Kozan district.

Muhammed Sonbaş, who has a 45% hearing and speech disability, had traveled from Feke to Kozan to shop on September 2. After returning home, his family noticed bruises on his face and around his eyes and took him to hospital. Doctors issued an assault report before discharging him after examination.

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The citizen was constantly coming as far as the area around my house. I saw him approach us and make gestures such as blowing kisses, waving, smiling and winking. Later, I noticed that he was taking videos and photographs.

Following the family’s complaint, Kozan’s Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office opened an investigation. Police detained C.D. on Feke Avenue in the Türkeli neighborhood, but released him after taking his statement. The suspect was detained again after footage from the incident came to light.

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My brother is responsible for protecting us. Everyone has a mother, a sibling and a child. I want what is necessary to be done.

The recording from a business shows Sonbaş standing by the roadside with shopping bags. C.D. arrives by car, approaches him and then appears to assault him. C.D.’s sister, İ.D., told reporters outside the courthouse that Sonbaş had been near their home and had made gestures she considered inappropriate. She said she called her brother to the scene and that a scuffle followed after he asked Sonbaş to hand over his phone.

As C.D. was taken to court, he reportedly shouted: “Call it a matter of honor. They set their sights on my honor, that’s why I hit him.” His court proceedings were continuing.

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Call it a matter of honor. They set their sights on my honor, that’s why I hit him.