İbrahim Keloğlan Arrested for Eros’s Murder: Punishment Announced, Last Minute News
Animal rights advocates and supporters of justice gathered at the Küçükçekmece 16th Criminal Court of First Instance for the hearing of the case involving defendant İbrahim Keloglan, who was accused of deliberately killing a cat. The court was filled with tension as the judge rejected the request of the Istanbul Bar Association Animal Rights Center to participate in the case, along with requests from other political parties and NGOs.
During the hearing, Keloglan pleaded for understanding, stating, “I am not a crime machine. I made a mistake that I deeply regret. Since the incident, I have taken steps to redeem myself by feeding and caring for animals in need.” Despite his heartfelt apology, the Public Prosecutor requested for Keloglan to be arrested and punished with a prison sentence close to the upper limit.
After a tumultuous trial, the court ultimately sentenced Keloglan to 2 years and 6 months in prison for the deliberate killing of an animal. The defendant was also placed under international travel ban as a part of the judicial control provisions.
Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç expressed his support for the court’s decision, stating that it is the highest penalty ever given under the Animal Protection Law. He emphasized the importance of respecting the right to life of all living creatures and vowed to continue fighting against animal cruelty.
The incident, which took place on January 1 in Istanbul, sparked outrage among animal lovers and activists. The cat, named Eros, died after being kicked repeatedly by Keloglan in an elevator. The defendant was arrested shortly after the incident and went through a lengthy legal battle before being handed down the final sentence.
The case has brought to light the importance of upholding animal rights and the need for stricter laws to protect animals from abuse and harm. Despite the challenging circumstances, the voices of those advocating for justice and compassion for animals continue to be heard.
