19.08.2026 13:30
The 5 suspects detained in connection with the knife attack on New Party Deputy Melih Meriç have been referred to the courthouse. The suspect who stabbed Meriç, when asked a question during the referral, responded, 'I didn't do it intentionally, I regret it. He provoked me. But I'm also very glad he survived.'
Melih Meriç, the new party's deputy for Gaziantep, who was stabbed and fled, and Seydi Ahmet Keleş, the former district chairman of CHP Oğuzeli, who later surrendered, along with 4 other suspects involved in the incident, were referred to the courthouse after the completion of legal procedures and health checks at the police station.
While road security measures were taken around the courthouse during the referral, suspect Seydi Ahmet Keleş said he regretted the incident and was glad that the deputy was alive.
"I'M GLAD HE'S ALIVE, HE'S MY FRIEND"
Responding to questions from the press during the referral, suspect Seydi Ahmet Keleş said, "I regret it, I didn't do it intentionally. I'm very sorry, the deputy is my friend. He provoked me a lot. I'm very sorry, I didn't do it deliberately. I'm very glad he's alive."
THE REASON FOR THE INCIDENT WAS THE PARTY DISTRICT CHAIRMANSHIP
Meanwhile, it was stated that in his statement at the police station, the suspect said the incident occurred due to a feud that started between them after the Oğuzeli district chairmanship of the New Party was given to another person.