10 Forest Heroes Martyred While Fighting Fire in Eskişehir

Kokcha News Agency: Ten forest workers and AKUT volunteers were martyred while fighting a forest fire in Seyitgazi, Eskişehir, after sudden wind shifts caused the flames to turn towards them. Seven people were injured in the incident, with six reported to be in stable condition and one receiving intensive care.

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı held a press conference at the Ankara Fire Management Center, stating that nine major fires broke out across Turkey today, and they are battling 11 large fires amid extreme heat and unpredictable winds.

Yumaklı said, “In the fire that started in Seyitgazi, Eskişehir, and spread to the borders of Afyonkarahisar, 19 forest workers and 5 AKUT members were caught in the flames due to sudden wind changes. Fourteen of our colleagues are currently receiving treatment in hospitals without major issues, but unfortunately, we lost 5 forest workers and 5 AKUT members. I extend my condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. May our nation’s sorrow be eased, and I pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”

Yumaklı also noted that fires are still ongoing in Sakarya, Karabük, Manisa, and Bilecik, and extreme heat and wind conditions are expected to continue. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and cautious.

Health Minister Memişoğlu Visits the Injured
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu visited the injured at Afyonkarahisar State Hospital and provided updates on their conditions. He said, “We have 10 martyrs, and we are deeply saddened. The injured are in stable condition and are expected to be discharged tomorrow. The bodies of our martyrs are being sent to Ankara Forensic Medicine Institute for identification and DNA analysis. May our nation’s sorrow be eased, and may God spare us from such pain in the future.”

Justice Minister Tunç’s Statement
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced on social media, “The bodies of our forest martyrs brought to Afyonkarahisar State Hospital are being transferred to Ankara Forensic Medicine Institute for identification and DNA analysis.”