Veterinarian Rearrested in Turkey Over '33 Dead Cats' Case

A veterinarian in Izmir, Turkey, who was previously released under judicial control in connection with the discovery of 33 dead cats, has been taken back into custody. The Izmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office appealed the court's decision to release the veterinarian, identified as Hakan E., 41, prompting his rearrest.

The investigation began on May 21 after adult and kitten cats were found dead in front of trash containers on Adnan Kahveci Street in the Buca district. Authorities identified Hakan E., who works at a clinic near the scene, as a suspect. During his initial interrogation, the veterinarian reportedly claimed that he usually buried deceased animals or handed them over to relevant institutions, but due to being overwhelmed, he left these cats in the trash.

Following his referral to the courthouse, the suspect was initially released by the duty judge under judicial control measures. However, the prosecutor's office's objection led to the Izmir 5th Criminal Court of First Instance accepting the appeal and ordering his detention. The case involves allegations of animal cruelty and improper disposal of animal remains.

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the deceased animals were normally buried in appropriate places or handed over to the relevant institutions, but due to being overwhelmed, they were left in the trash this time.