Bar Association Calls for Transparent Investigation into Detainee’s Death at Boğaz Police Station

The Turkish Cypriot Bar Association (KTBB) has issued a statement regarding the death of 41-year-old Turkmen national Eziz Sapartagaganov, who was found dead in a detention cell at Boğaz Police Station. Authorities say he died by suicide.

KTBB is calling for a "thorough and transparent investigation", emphasizing that his death while in custody is a serious human rights violation that must not be ignored.

The statement highlights four key points:

1. A Full and Independent Investigation
   The circumstances surrounding Sapartagaganov’s death must be fully investigated by both the Police Department and the Council of Ministers, in line with international human rights standards. Additionally, the judiciary must conduct its own investigation under Article 6 of Chapter 153 of the "Judges Investigating Deaths" law.

2. Urgent Need to Improve Detention Conditions
   This tragedy raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of detainees in police custody. Immediate steps must be taken to improve both physical and psychological security in detention facilities to prevent future violations.

3. Protection of Fundamental Rights
   The right to life and protection from mistreatment must be upheld for all detainees. To ensure this:

   • Torture and ill-treatment should be classified as criminal offenses in the Penal Code.
   • Independent monitoring mechanisms must be put in place for unbiased investigations into such incidents.
   • Detainees and prisoners must undergo regular health assessments, in accordance with the Istanbul Protocol.

4. Accountability and Transparency
   The General Police Directorate must provide a clear and detailed explanation of the incident. If negligence is found, those responsible must be held accountable. Furthermore, police stations, prisons, and other detention facilities must be subject to independent civilian oversight.

The statement warns that failure to implement these measures has led to repeated incidents of this nature and stresses the urgent need for reform.

"The responsibility for this loss of life lies with all of us. If immediate action is not taken, similar tragedies will continue to occur," the statement concludes.

Background of the Incident

The tragic event took place in the early hours of Monday. Eziz Sapartagaganov, a 41-year-old Turkmen national, was being held at Boğaz Police Station on suspicion of assault and making violent threats against women. According to the official report, he died by suicide.