Eskisehir attacker’s links to Eastern European extremist prompt European aid request

Arda Kucukyetim, the perpetrator of a knife attack in Eskisehir that injured five people, is attracting attention from European countries.

Kucukyetim, who seriously wounded one victim and four others, revealed during interrogation that he was influenced by an individual using the pseudonym “Fjotolf Hansen” on the Steam gaming platform.

Hansen, who claimed to be from Eastern Europe, reportedly suggested making explosives and was involved in discussions about acquiring weapons.

Following Kucukyetim’s disclosure that Hansen was contemplating making explosives, several European countries reached out to Türkiye for assistance.

‘He talked about wanting to buy guns’

Kucukyetim described Hansen’s intentions, stating: “He talked about wanting to buy a weapon at his school and mentioned obtaining it through his family. He also suggested that I could make explosives. During our conversation, Hansen shared his thoughts on making explosives and even using a relative’s car in an attack, though he did not provide specific details.”

Broadened investigation in Eskisehir

The Eskisehir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has broadened its investigation. Kucukyetim deleted information from his devices prior to the attack, prompting the formation of a special team to recover the lost data. This team has seized materials to aid in the restoration process.

Additionally, the prosecutor’s office will seek information about the inciter, a 16-year-old using the Steam platform. Kucukyetim, who had previously sought medical help for suspected depression, admitted to self-harming and using cigarette flames on his body for pleasure.