26.12.2025 20:26
A strict measure is being introduced against armed incidents that frequently occur during weddings, engagements, and similar celebrations in Turkey. With the regulation made under the 11th Judicial Package, those who fire weapons in populated areas will face up to 7.5 years in prison, even if there are no injuries or fatalities. The new implementation aims to enhance deterrence by also covering weapons that fire blank rounds, sound, and gas cartridges.
The Minister of Justice, Yılmaz Tunç, announced that penalties for those who fire weapons at weddings, engagements, and celebrations have been increased with the regulation made within the scope of the 11th Judicial Package. According to the new regulation, those who fire weapons in populated areas, even if there is no injury or death, may face up to 7.5 years in prison.
Minister Tunç stated that weapons capable of firing sound and gas cartridges, as well as blank-firing pistols, are also included in this scope, emphasizing that up to 3 years of imprisonment could be imposed for the use of such weapons, and highlighted that the regulation would provide strong deterrence.
"A STEP THAT STRENGTHENS SOCIAL SECURITY"
Tunç expressed that the penalties aim to prevent loss of life and injuries that occur during weddings, engagements, and similar mass celebrations. He pointed out that this regulation against the use of weapons in populated areas is significant for public order and citizen safety.
WHAT ELSE IS IN THE 11TH JUDICIAL PACKAGE?
Minister Tunç stated that the 11th Judicial Package is not limited to this regulation, but includes many regulations aimed at organized crimes, preventing the use of children by criminal organizations, traffic offenses, cybercrimes, and increasing the effectiveness of criminal justice.
COVID-19 REGULATION IS NOT A PARDON
Tunç also addressed the "COVID-19 regulation," which has been discussed in the public, emphasizing that it is not a pardon, but a technical regulation aimed at ensuring criminal justice and equality. He stated that violence against women, child abuse, terrorism, and organized crimes are excluded from this scope.