In Istanbul’s Fatih district, a father launched an axe attack on a man accused of sexually abusing his daughter. The incident, unfolding on a busy street, was captured on a bystander’s cell phone, drawing significant public attention. The father, İlker Demirdöven, allegedly targeted Kadir İ.Y., the 28-year-old man accused by Demirdöven’s 17-year-old daughter, H.N.D., of past abusive acts. As Demirdöven swung the axe at Kadir İ.Y., the accused narrowly escaped the blows and fled from the scene.
Teen’s Statement Triggers Father’s Rage
The violent scene erupted after H.N.D. confided in her father, disclosing alleged abuse by her older boyfriend. Upon learning this, Demirdöven saw Kadir İ.Y. passing by on a motorcycle and rushed to confront him with an axe from his home. Witnesses reported seeing the father swing the weapon as the alleged abuser attempted to dodge the strikes, eventually abandoning his motorcycle and running away. Witness Emre Can, who was passing by, described the shocking scene: “I saw someone breaking a motorcycle. I don’t know the exact reason, but I heard that a father was upset about his daughter’s boyfriend.”
Police Intervene, Suspect Detained
Police arrived shortly after the altercation to investigate the matter. Officers took both H.N.D. and her father to the police station for questioning. Based on H.N.D.’s statements, authorities apprehended Kadir İ.Y. later that night. Following a thorough investigation, he was presented in court, where he faced questioning regarding the abuse allegations. Due to the ongoing investigation, the court ordered Kadir İ.Y. released under judicial supervision. Local residents expressed mixed reactions, with some empathizing with the father’s protective instincts, while others voiced concern over escalating public violence.
Aftermath and Community Response
The incident has ignited a debate on parental responses to abuse allegations and public reactions to family violence cases. Although the authorities emphasized a fair investigation, the father’s actions underscore the heightened emotions surrounding such cases. Legal experts remind the public that violent retribution complicates legal proceedings and can hinder justice, urging those affected by similar situations to work within the legal framework to address accusations.
