KTOEÖS Members File Complaint Against Police, Claim “Disproportionate Use Of Force”

In a press statement outside the police building, the union announced that 13 teachers had been served criminal proceedings in connection with the demonstrations.

The union argues that the cases are intended to intimidate educators and weaken trade union activity, insisting that they will continue to defend the rights and interests of teachers and society despite pressure.

Union officials, joined by lawyers and members, said they would also file a formal complaint against the police, alleging “disproportionate use of force” during the protests.

Lawyer Cansu Nazlı said the charges filed against the teachers include accusations such as failing to disperse after an order, participating in unlawful assembly activities, damaging an emergency vehicle, assaulting police officers, and obstructing officers in the line of duty. She argued that similar charges were being applied broadly to all participants.

Nazlı also claimed that even protesters who had themselves been subjected to police force and had filed complaints were now facing criminal charges, calling this a tactic intended to discourage complaints against police conduct.

She further alleged that police used excessive force, including pepper spray, and described instances of physical violence during arrests. Nazlı said complaints will be filed regarding what she described as unlawful treatment and abuse of authority.

Tahir Gökçebel and other union representatives also reiterated that the charges are unjust and politically motivated, stating that teachers will continue their struggle despite ongoing legal pressure.