The suspect who killed 2 PTT officials claims 'sugar crisis' as a defense.

On January 7th in Rize, an incident occurred at the PTT Headquarters in the Mermerdelen neighborhood; Hakan Kocaman, who came to the cargo unit of the headquarters, requested the bank card belonging to his father. When this request was denied due to its irregularity, Hakan Kocaman argued with the employees. The argument escalated into an armed fight. Hakan Kocaman fired his gun, which he drew from his waist, and fled in his car. The cargo distribution manager Selim Okumuş and the cleaning staff member Ömer Beyazıt were injured by the bullets. Many health and police teams were dispatched to the scene upon the notification of those nearby. The two injured individuals, who received first aid, were taken to the hospital. Despite all the efforts of the doctors, Okumuş and Beyazıt could not be saved. Hakan Kocaman, who was caught in the attic of the building where he was hiding, was arrested for the crimes of 'killing a public official on duty' and 'using an unlicensed firearm.' Selim Okumuş was buried after the funeral prayer held in the Hemşin district, and cleaning staff member Ömer Beyazıt was buried in Derepazarı.

'I DON'T REMEMBER HOW MANY SHOTS I FIRED'

While the investigation into the incident continues, Hakan Kocaman's statement during the prosecutor's interrogation has emerged. Kocaman, who reportedly has a record for the crime of wounding with a firearm, stated in his testimony, "I have been a diabetic for about 4 years. Additionally, as the eldest child of the family, I take care of my father, who has mental problems. I wanted to get the card. I had a diabetic crisis during the incident. I got scared and drew my gun. I don't remember how many shots I fired or who I aimed at. I am very sorry for the incident. The reason for the incident is my diabetes."

TURKISH NEWS-SEN REACTION

Meanwhile, members of the Turkish News-Sen Rize Provincial Representation also condemned the attack that occurred together with PTT employees. Murat Köseoğlu, the Provincial Representative of KAMU-SEN, made a statement on behalf of the group gathered in front of the PTT Central Directorate in the city center, saying, "We strongly condemn the heinous attack that took place. We share our deep sorrow with the public following this tragic incident. We once again emphasize that we will fight for the rights and safety of public employees in every way possible."