Erzurum suspect detained after cat kicked in mosque

Authorities in Erzurum have detained a suspect following an incident at the Adalar Mosque in the Aziziye district, where a cat was filmed being kicked during prayer. Security footage shows a cat attempting to walk between the feet of worshippers, at which point an individual kicked the animal. The force of the kick caused the cat to fly into the air, striking the imam's head before falling to the ground.

The Erzurum Chief Public Prosecutor's Office launched an investigation under the Animal Protection Law after the footage gained widespread attention on social media. Following an identification process, the suspect was taken into custody.

In response to the incident, local animal lovers gathered at the mosque and its surrounding areas to search for the cat and check on its condition. While the investigation continues, the whereabouts of the cat remain unknown.