Turkey has issued a decree paving the way for the conditional release of 38,000 prisoners in an apparent move to make jail space for thousands of people who have been arrested after last month’s failed coup. Some prisoners are excluded: people convicted of murder, domestic violence, sexual abuse or terrorism and other crimes against the state. Gülen has denied any prior knowledge or involvement in the coup but Turkey is demanding that the US extradite him. The Turkish government declared a state of emergency and launched a massive crackdown on Gülen’s supporters in the aftermath of the coup. The crackdown has raised concerns among European countries and human rights organisations, who have urged the Turkish government to show restraint.

Source: The Guardian August 17, 2016 07:58 UTC