PUBLIC AI Index: EUR 44/028/2005

2 August 2005

Further Information on UA 94/05 (EUR 44/014/2005, 20 April 2005) Death threats/Fear for safety

TURKEY Eren Keskin (f) ]

Saban Dayanan (m) ] members of the Insan Haklari Dernegi

Dogan Genç (m) ] (IHD), Human Rights Association

The three members of the Insan Haklari Dernegi (IHD), Human Rights Association named above have not received any further death threats following the threatening letters sent to their home and work addresses on 19 April by the ultra-nationalist group Türk Intikam Tugayi (Turkish Revenge Brigade).

The Turkish authorities have informed Amnesty International thatthe Ministry of the Interioris investigating the threats against the three and that they have warned all the provincial governors in Turkey to take "the necessary security precautions" to protect the branches of IHD and other non-governmental organizations in case of possible attacks.

Members of the IHD confirmed that they had given statements to police as part of the investigation into the threats. Saban Dayanan said, “We still face a risk as a result of these threats, because they want us to stop our activities at the IHD. We are trying to continue working without taking notice of these threats." He also sent a message to members of the UAnetwork: “We are indebted to all those who thought of us and sent urgent action appeals. We need such solidarity. The reactions to these appeals will prevent these attacks. We believe this from our hearts. We send warm greetings to all those who showed concern for our security.”

Many thanks to all who sent appeals. No further action is required from the UA network at present.