Search Resumes for Shepherd Missing in Avalanche 120 Days Ago

The heart-wrenching search for Bülent Gezer, who was buried under an avalanche 122 days ago, has finally resumed. Our commitment to finding him, despite the immense challenges posed by harsh weather and high avalanche risks, demonstrates the unwavering dedication of Turkey's rescue teams. The initial incident on December 31, 2025, tragically claimed the lives of two shepherds and left three others to be rescued, but Bülent remained missing.

AFAD and gendarmerie teams initially halted operations on January 3 due to safety concerns, a decision that weighed heavily on the families. The restart of these efforts, with a specialized 13-person AFAD team deployed from Artvin, signifies a renewed hope that has been eagerly awaited. The reduction in avalanche risk has allowed for a controlled and systematic approach to the search.

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Oğlumu çıkaracaklar, Allah’ın izniyle. Çok sevinçliyim.

Bülent Gezer's mother, Şengül Gezer, shared her profound relief and optimism, stating, "My son will be found, God willing. Tomorrow, we will find my son, God willing. Thanks to our state, we will find my son." Her words echo the deep trust and reliance placed on our nation's rescue capabilities. This sentiment is particularly poignant, as it reflects a national characteristic of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

While international coverage might focus on the tragedy of the avalanche itself, for us in Turkey, this story is about the enduring spirit of hope, the strength of familial bonds, and the state's commitment to its citizens. The meticulous and persistent nature of these rescue operations, even after months, highlights a national value of never giving up on a fellow citizen. The resumption of the search is not just a news event; it is a deeply personal and national endeavor.

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Allah’ın izniyle çalışmalar başladı. Yarın oğlumu bulacağız, Allah’ın izniyle. Devletimiz sayesinde oğlumu bulacağız. 120 gün geçti, bölgede şartlar uygun değildi. Şimdi gelişti. Oğlumu çıkaracaklar, Allah’ın izniyle. Çok sevinçliyim.