Turkish flag provocation in northern Syria foiled, perpetrators apprehended
Syrian National Army raised the Turkish flag on the mast in Azaz, Syria, July 1, 2024 (AA Photos).
Provocations against Türkiye were observed in northern Syria, following incidents targeting refugees in Kayseri and several other cities on June 30, according to security sources.
In response to attacks on the Turkish flag and attempts to target Turkish security forces during these incidents, the Turkish National Intelligence Organization, along with the Ministries of Interior and National Defense, initiated joint operations with law enforcement agencies.
As a result of operations conducted by the National Intelligence Organization, a 17-year-old suspect who attacked the Turkish flag in the city of al Bab, Syria, was apprehended.
The individual, who apologized in front of the Turkish flag and kissed it, stated: “I attacked the Turkish flag and deeply regret it. I apologize to the Turkish people.”
Security forces have begun efforts to apprehend those who incited the suspect.
Apology to Turkish people
Two suspects involved in provocations against Türkiye in northern Syria also apologized to Türkiye and its people in their statements.
The apprehended suspect explained: “My brother and I were affected by the events in Kayseri, which led us to make this mistake. Our intention was not to disparage the Turkish people.”
“We have religious and racial ties with the Turkish people. The Turkish people host millions of Syrian refugees. The Turkish army has always been by our side. I apologize to the Turkish government again.”
The suspects mentioned that various institutions, including the Syrian Interim Government, contacted them to acknowledge their wrongdoing.
‘Apologizing from bottom of my heart’
Another suspect was apprehended for pulling down the Turkish flag in the region.
In his statement, suspect Ahmed Nana acknowledged that they were influenced by provocations from certain circles and pressures on social media.
Nana admitted to disrespectfully removing the Turkish flag, stating in his testimony:
“I lowered the Turkish flag from where it was waving. This flag has become a symbol of the shrouds of martyrs in the joint struggle of the Turkish state, the Turkish people, and the free Syrian people against common enemies. I sincerely apologize with all my heart for this irresponsible behavior. I also apologize to my ancestors who upheld this flag and never let it fall. I hope you can forgive me for this action, in the name of Islamic brotherhood and our shared history.”
Nana kissed the Turkish flag, expressing his regret for falling into this strife.
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