Greek diplomats appear relieved by the fact that Ankara has not yet submitted an official request for the extradition of eight Turkish army officials who fled to Greece by helicopter following last month’s failed coup. According to Greek diplomats the main reason behind the delay is probably the domestic upheaval faced by Turkey at the moment.
Kathimerini cited a Greek diplomatic source who confirmed that Ankara had not in fact taken any official legal action in the extradition case. “The fact that such a request must be legally documented with a list of the officers’ alleged offenses as well as reassurances that they will receive a fair trial in their country is most likely an obstacle,” noted the newspaper.
Meanwhile, the Greek court of Alexandroupoli is expected to rule on the asylum application of the Turkish officers in late August. Even though Turkey has promised a fair trial for the 8 officers, the asylum seekers claim that if they are returned to Turkey they would be killed or tortured.
The coup attempt took place in Turkey on Friday, July 15 and was suppressed the following day. Over 240 people were killed and more than 2,100 were injured, not including the victims among the coup plotters.
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