Erdogan’s security men charged over US clash

PROSECUTORS in Washington yesterday charged 12 Turkish security agents who were involved in a violent altercation during the visit of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan last month.

The police department said 18 people faced charges, and that two had been arrested. Twelve are Turkish security agents who have outstanding arrest warrants for their part in the clash at the Turkish ambassador’s residence in Washington, which left nine people protesting against Mr Erdoğan injured.

The American authorities have voiced dismay over what they see as an attack on free speech. Relations between the US and Turkey were severely strained before the May 16 clash, and the charges are likely to exacerbate that.

The Nato allies are still at odds over a US decision to arm Syrian Kurdish rebels – whom the Turks consider terrorists – who are fighting Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil).

Two Americans have been charged over the altercation. Sinan Narin, of Virginia, was charged with felony and misdemeanour assault, and Eyup Yildirim was charged with two felony counts and one misdemeanour assault count.

Mr Erdoğan’s security detail returned to Turkey, so it is unclear if any will face legal repercussions in the US.

Rex Tillerson, the secretary of state, said in a statement the charges sent “a clear message” the US does not “tolerate individuals who use intimidation and violence to stifle freedom of speech and legitimate political expression”.