Amnesty International Report on 'Abuse and Torture' of Detainees Related to Turkey's Coup

Amnesty International announced on Sunday that it has obtained 'credible evidence' indicating that some prisoners detained after the recent failed coup in Turkey have been 'subjected to abuse, torture, and even rape.' In a report published on Sunday, July 25, Amnesty International claims that some individuals imprisoned as a result of the government's purges following the failed coup on July 15 have been 'beaten, tortured, and raped in both official and unofficial detention centers in the country.' The human rights organization also states that based on received reports, police in Ankara and Istanbul have held some detainees for up to 48 hours under 'harsh conditions.' The Amnesty report further claims that while detainees have been subjected to insults, threats, and verbal abuse, access to food, drink, and medical care has been denied to them. The report also cites two lawyers for the detainees who stated that prisoners have told them they witnessed the rape of some senior military officers. It continues that compared to other prisoners, some high-ranking military personnel have faced more mistreatment. The report is based on discussions with several lawyers, a doctor, and a staff member from one of the detention centers, and according to one of these individuals, some prisoners have been tortured to the extent that they were unable to speak. In this context, the Europe director of Amnesty International told AFP that 'while Turkey's current concerns about public security are understandable, no circumstances justify torture, other ill-treatment, and arbitrary detention.' This official urged Turkish authorities to stop 'these heinous acts' and allow international observers access to detention centers. In response to the Amnesty report, AFP reported the statements of an unnamed Turkish official who rejected the report, stating that Turkey is committed to human rights standards. This official remarked that 'the claim that a country like Turkey, which seeks EU membership, does not comply with the law is ridiculous.' He added, 'We firmly reject these allegations and ask legal groups to take impartial legal steps against actions that led to the deaths of nearly 250 civilians.' According to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, as announced on Saturday, 13,165 people have been detained following the recent failed coup. Among those detained are 8,838 military personnel, 2,101 judges and prosecutors, 1,485 police officers, and 689 civilians. Additionally, according to the Prime Minister, at least 123 Turkish generals and admirals have also been imprisoned since the coup. In this context, the European Union has urged Turkey to respect the rule of law and fundamental freedoms. Erdoğan declared a state of emergency in Turkey for three months. 99 Turkish generals and admirals have been officially charged with 'attempting to carry out a coup.' The ongoing purges in Turkey have seen the number of those expelled from government and security institutions reach 50,000. The U.S. Secretary of State has called for respect for democracy and law in Turkey.