HRW confirms Turkey's sponsorship of crime perpetrators in Syria
Human Rights Watch confirmed that Turkey’s reception of officials responsible for atrocities committed in the occupied Syrian areas represents a blatant disregard for accountability, justice, and future stability in the region, and indicates the Turkish authorities’ sponsorship of criminals.
“Turkey Sponsors Syrian Factions Accused of Committing Serious Crimes”
Human Rights Watch highlighted the warm reception given by Turkish officials and politicians, including Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli and Turkish mafia boss Alaattin Çakıcı, to leaders of the mercenary factions "Hamzat" and "Suleiman Shah."
The report emphasized: "The images strongly remind us of Turkey’s failure to deter the violations committed by the groups it supports." It noted that the leaders of the mercenary factions are accused by the United States of committing "serious violations and overseeing abuses committed by their factions," and both are subject to U.S. sanctions.
The organization stated that the areas occupied by Turkey in Syria are "lawless and unsafe."
It explained that this is largely because Turkey has consistently fostered an environment of impunity in the areas it occupies in Northern Syria. A report published by Human Rights Watch in February 2024 documented the atrocities committed by various factions of the Syrian National Army, including Hamzat and Suleiman Shah. These atrocities include abduction, illegal detention (including children), sexual violence, and torture. Furthermore, the report highlights widespread looting, property seizure, and the lack of accountability to prevent these abuses or compensate the victims.
The organization confirmed that media images published by Turkish official media indicate that the Turkish authorities "not only fail to address these violations but also celebrate and encourage those responsible. Bahçeli's public association with the faction leaders undermines efforts to hold them accountable and suggests official or tacit approval of their actions."
The organization explained that this reception demonstrates a blatant disregard for accountability, justice, and future stability in the region.
Turkey has occupied various regions in Syria since 2016, including Jarabulus, Azaz, Al-Bab, Idlib, Afrin, Girê Sipî, and Serê Kaniyê. These occupied Syrian areas witness daily crimes committed by the Turkish occupation army and its mercenaries against the remaining residents and the region’s natural environment, as monitored daily by ANHA agency.
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