Turkish teacher Irmak Ayşe Koparan's death triggers mobbing probe

Irmak Ayşe Koparan, a 28‑year‑old contract preschool teacher in Hamur district, Ağrı, was found dead at her home on 7 June 2026. Shortly before her death she filed an official statement on 17 April 2026 accusing school principal Melahat İleri of repeated verbal insults (“Çingene”, “gerizekalı”, etc.) and of striking her twice on the face during a school‑bus dispute. The record was signed by several colleagues and sent to the provincial education directorate.

Koparan had repeatedly complained about unsafe living conditions, a daily commute of about 100 km to the Soğanlıtepe school, and travel expenses exceeding 3,000 TL per day. She requested a transfer, but her request was denied and she was reassigned to the distant school. After the allegations, police detained İleri, who denied the claims and was later released and dismissed from her post. The Ağrı prosecutor’s office opened a criminal investigation, while the provincial education directorate appointed an inspector for an administrative review.

The teachers’ union Eğitim Sen, represented by Muhammet İkinci, called for an independent, transparent inquiry, stating that “Irmak Ayşe Koparan’s death must be fully illuminated” and urging accountability for any negligence or abuse. The case has drawn national media attention and prompted comments from Education Minister Yusuf Tekin, who said the investigations would continue.