Uzbek national arrested in Antalya over attempted bank robbery refuses consular assistance

The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Turkey confirmed the information circulated by a number of media that a citizen of our country J.O., who attacked a branch of a private bank in Antalya and took two technical staff members hostage, has been arrested, the Foreign Ministry said.

It should be recalled that on December 17, a citizen of Uzbekistan who attempted an armed robbery at a private bank in Antalya province was detained after being convinced by the security forces.

He said he was defrauded and engaged in the robbery to draw attention to his case.

Currently, regarding J.O., a criminal case has been instituted, and on December 18, the Criminal Court of Antalya launched a trial. The man was offered legal aid, met with an attorney but he refused consular assistance.

The Consular Section of the Embassy said they have taken the situation under control and are in constant contact with the relevant authorities of Turkey.