14 Oct 2024 | 04:02 PM UTC
Turkiye: Increased security measures extended in Sirnak province, maintained elsewhere in southeast, as of Oct. 14 /update 4
Officials extend security measures in Sirnak, and maintain them elsewhere in southeastern Turkiye, as of Oct. 14.
Authorities in Sirnak have extended temporary security restrictions across much of the province through Oct. 28 after opposition activists held a demonstration in Diyarbakir on Oct. 13 in defiance of a government ban. Authorities prohibit persons from entering the restricted zones, which include the Sirnak city center, without permission.
Activists affiliated with the Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) demonstrated in Diyarbakir on Oct. 13 amid heavy security despite a protest ban. Police arrested at least 20 people and prevented an unspecified number of suspected protesters from entering the city. Reports of violence did not emerge from Diyarbakir or other provinces under heightened security.
While heightened security measures have expired in several provinces, authorities maintain security measures in multiple regions, including restrictions on all public gatherings and unspecified measures to prevent persons from entering or transiting various provinces to participate in such protest activity. Such measures remain in effect in the following provinces:
Bitlis: Through 23:59 Oct. 14.
Erzurum: Through 08:00 Oct. 14.
Igdir: Through 23:59 Oct. 14.
Mardin: Through 08:00 Oct. 14.
Sanliurfa: Through 23:59 Oct. 14.
Authorities will almost certainly deploy increased police and military personnel across the affected provinces through at least Oct. 14 and through Oct. 28 in Sirnak. Security measures could include checkpoints along major thoroughfares in the region and increased vehicular and pedestrian searches, particularly on roads approaching major cities. Transport disruptions are likely, particularly on major roadways, and may continue beyond the specified dates. Police will likely intervene in the case of any attempted gatherings during this period; clashes are possible should protesters attempt to assemble. Authorities may reimpose similar restrictions in regions where official security measures have lapsed with little warning.
Exercise increased caution if operating in southeastern Turkiye in the coming days. Strictly heed the instructions of security personnel. Carry proper identification documents on your person at all times. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Avoid any demonstrations that may occur; keep away from any location where police or military personnel appear to be deploying.
