Nine detained over attack on Alevi leader

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Police have detained nine people related to the attack on an Alevi leader in İstabul's Kartal district on August 5.

While the incident was thought to be a hate attack as it came days after multiple attacks on Alevi associations and places of worship in the capital of Ankara, the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA) reported that it was because of "personal hostility."

Selami Sarıtaş, the head of the Kartal Cemevi, an Alevi place of worship, was slightly injured after the attack by multiple people in front of his home.

The attack was instigated by Naki D., 48, a board member of the Alevi Association, according to AA.

Having searched 15 homes and one workplace in relation to the investigation, the police seized a shotgun and a motorcycle used by the attackers.

The nine suspects were referred to the courthouse after giving statements to the police. (HA/VK)