Security forces accused of keeping records on Tunceli locals

ISTANBUL

DHA photo

Police and gendarmerie forces in the eastern province of Tunceli have been keeping records of citizens suspected of maintaining links to a variety of organizations, daily Hürriyet has reported.

The records, which included local political figures and even elderly citizens, were kept by the Hozat District Governor’s Office and provided to police forces and gendarmerie stations.

Locals are described in detail according to their physical appearance, and alleged links to several organizations are noted. Personal details and habits are also included.

A 77-year-old man was among those that was followed by authorities, as well were school principles and local political party figures, Hürriyet reported.

The Tunceli Bar Association denounced the practice, saying it was contradictory to both national and international law.

“The right of privacy and freedom of expression has been violated. These records are illegal,” said Özden Eren Başkavak Gül, the vice president of the bar.

Tunceli Police Chief Hayati Yılmaz said the police had not been involved in the activities and that those responsible would be prosecuted.