Turkey: Gendarmerie removes mining protest tent as activists await court ruling

In Korgan, Turkey, a solidarity tent erected by local residents and the Korgan Aybastı Kabataş Environmental Association (KAKÇEV) to protest Taşyapı company's mining exploration was removed by gendarmerie forces overnight. The tent was intended to sustain the community's vigil and provide information.

Feridun Güney, KAKÇEV spokesperson, stated that the tent was set up at the public's request and called for nationwide support. He highlighted that a court decision is pending regarding the mining activities. Güney cited an expert report indicating that even the drilling operations, let alone a full mining facility, have caused negative and irreversible damage to the environment. "We expect the court to announce its decision within the next few days," he said.

Güney also drew attention to the "Bal Ormanı Project" within the Bolaman Basin, emphasizing the area's significance for thousands of endemic plant species and beekeeping. He deemed the presence of excavators and drilling machines in this habitat unacceptable and demanded a halt to the operations. Furthermore, he noted the importance of the region for large-scale cattle farming and Karayaka sheep breeding, urging an end to the "nature massacre" considering these natural and economic values. He also called for participation in an upcoming event organized by the Ordu Environmental Association (ORÇEV) to amplify the protest.

Meanwhile, members of ORÇEV attempting to reach the area to support the environmental struggle were stopped and subjected to identity checks at a police checkpoint in Altınordu and in Kabataş. Despite these checks, gendarmerie attempted to block their access to the plateau. However, the environmentalists managed to reach the area via alternative routes. ORÇEV President Ertuğrul Gazi Gönül stated that the Administrative Court had previously issued a stay order on the mining activities, but this was overturned by an appellate court. He pointed out that an expert report released the same day revealed the mining activity lacked public benefit. "The exploration report clearly states 'There is no public benefit to a mining operation here, only harm.' Despite this, the Ordu Administrative Court has not yet issued its main decision. The current mining operation is unlawful," Gönül asserted. He reminded that Article 56 of the Constitution imposes a responsibility on citizens to protect the environment and stated they would demand the necessary permits and documents from the company. "An unlawful operation, contrary to law and court decisions, is being carried out in the region," he concluded.