On 8 January, Cetin Karakoyun, aged 14 and detained on suspicion of theft in Mersin, died in custody at Magazalar Police Station, allegedly by an accidental shot to his head. Burial was carried out quickly by the police and the family was denied the opportunity to see the body. A police officer has been detained in connection with the killing. On 8 January, Metin Goktepe, a Turkish journalist, was covering the funeral of two of the killed political prisoners when he was detained by the police. Amnesty International is sending a delegation to Turkey to look into the circumstances surrounding the death of journalist Metin Goktepe.
Investigative journalism is a dangerous profession in Turkey.
Police cordoned off the area and carried out hurried burials without even allowing religious ceremonies to be performed. Hundreds of mourners, including relatives of the dead, were detained and taken to Eyup Sports Centre and to local police stations. Journalists who monitored the detentions and photographed mourners being kicked and beaten by the police were reportedly attacked by police officers who seized their films and video cassettes. Several journalists were detained, including Metin Goktepe. He was seen being beaten as he was taken away to Eyup Sports Centre where he was held for some time.