Thursday, October 28, 2010

Trial against Greenpeace started in Ankara

28 October 2010

Greenpeace members were arrested in front of Parliament while protesting against nuclear plants

The trial against Greenpeace members who were arrested while protesting in front of the Turkish Parliament against the Nucleer Power Plant in Akkuyu district of Mersin started in Ankara. Greenpeace members held a demonstration in front of the court after the hearing.

On 6 July 2010 the Greenpeace protested while the nuclear power plant treaty, signed with Russia, was discussed at the Turkish parliament. The protesters opened a banner saying “Turkey does not Want Nuclear” and wanted to 174 thousand petitions to the MP’s. After the police intervention 58 protestors have been detained who appeared before the court today. The defendants stated at the hearing that they have not committed any crimes and demanded to be acquitted.

Speaking on behalf of Greenpeace Korol Diker said they free to have a cup tea with ministers but they are charged with 3-year imprisonment. Ümit Şahin of the Greens said the government is suppressing the anti-nuclear opposition which is escalating.

The protest was supported by the Peace and Democracy Party (BDP), the Human Rights Foundation of Turkey and Peace Assembly of Turkey.

ANF / ANKARA

ANF NEWS AGENCY