A criminal investigation has been filed regarding the İsias Hotel, which caused the death of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus TRNC team in the earthquake in Adıyaman.

The Turkish Ambassador to Lefkoşa Metin Feyzioğlu announced on Sunday that the Adıyaman Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office filed a criminal investigation into the hotel, samples were taken from the wreckage and a judicial process was initiated.

“According to a decision taken by the TRNC Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the TRNC applied to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye through our Embassy in Lefkoşa, asking the authorities to initiate an investigation” Feyzioğlu explained.

“Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately wrote to the Adıyaman Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and demanded the necessary action. Criminal investigation has been opened. Samples were taken from the wreckage. The judicial process has begun” he noted.

Referring to the ongoing search and rescue efforts, Feyzioğlu said “our search and rescue teams continue to work devotedly regarding all destroyed buildings which became graves, and on the other hand, the judicial authorities of Türkiye are carrying out investigations without being limited to working days and hours.”

The Turkish Ambassador concluded his statement by wishing God’s mercy on the lost lives, a quick recovery to the injured, and patience to the families and loved ones who are experiencing this indescribable grief.