Washington (June 16, 2017): The United States prosecutors have charged a dozen of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s security officials with assault for attacking the protesters in Washington during his visit to Washington last month.
On the afternoon of May 16, nine people were injured when members of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s security team had attacked and dispersed the protesters outside the Turkish ambassador’s residence in Washington.
The charges against some members of Erdogan’s security detail send a clear message that the US “does not tolerate individuals who use intimidation and violence to stifle freedom of speech and legitimate political expression,” US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said.
On the other hand, Turkey condemned the charges and said the Turkish citizens, who left the country with Erdogan, should not be held responsible for the incident.
Turkish Foreign Minister said in a statement, “This decision taken by U.S. authorities is wrong, biased and lacks legal basis.”
“The brawl in front of the Turkish ambassador’s residence was caused by the failure of local security authorities to take necessary measures,” the ministry added
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