Thessaloniki Court orders extradition of Turkish national

The Thessaloniki Court of Appeal has decided to extradite a 39-year-old Turkish national to Turkey. Turkish authorities are seeking his extradition to face charges related to migrant smuggling.

The individual denies the allegations, claiming he is facing political persecution due to his Kurdish heritage and political views. He stated that the charges are fabricated and that he has been targeted for his online posts and political opinions. He has previously served a 3.5-year sentence in Greece for the same offense and had his application for political asylum rejected.

The legal proceedings were delayed after a fire broke out in his cell at the Diabat prison, requiring his transfer to a hospital. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the fire. Authorities are examining whether the incident was an act of solidarity for another Turkish national facing extradition for drug trafficking.