Trial for Santa Maria Church Armed Attack Commences
An armed attack took place at the Santa Maria Church in Sarıyer, resulting in the tragic death of 52-year-old Tuncer Cihan. The trial for the 43 defendants involved, including ski-masked attackers David Tanduev and Amirjon Kholikov, has started at the Istanbul 26th High Criminal Court. During the hearing, defendant Tanduev exercised his right to remain silent, stating that he did not want to talk or reveal any names.
Meanwhile, defendant Kholikov denied being present at the scene of the incident, claiming that the attacker in the images did not resemble him. The defense lawyers presented evidence of reconnaissance around the church prior to the attack, challenging the defendants’ claims of innocence.
Another detained defendant, Shamsullo Radzhabov, admitted that the car used in the attack belonged to him but denied any involvement in the crime. Emotions ran high as Enver Karakaş condemned all terrorist organizations and expressed a desire for the perpetrators to face the heaviest punishment.
The court postponed the hearing to continue the defense statements of the detained defendants. The indictment prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office listed Tuncer Cihan as the victim, with 11 complainants and 43 suspects. The indictment detailed the involvement of DAESH members Tanduev and Kholikov in the attack, along with other accomplices.
The suspects face charges of attempting to destroy the constitutional order, being members of an armed terrorist organization, premeditated murder, and possession of firearms and ammunition. The prosecution seeks harsh sentences for the defendants, ranging from years in prison to aggravated life imprisonment.
The trial continues as the victims, families, and the court seek justice for the tragic events that unfolded on that fateful day at the Santa Maria Church.
