Human Rights in Turkey
Critically Ill Prisoners in Turkish Prisons – Daveti Tan

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VICTIM : Daveti Tan
INCIDENT : The health condition of a prisoner suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is steadily deteriorating, despite a medical report stating that he “cannot remain in prison.”
LOCATION : Van, Turkey
SITUATION : Sentenced to 4 years and 8 months in prison on allegations of “membership in an organization.”

Case Summary

The health condition of 61-year-old prisoner Daveti Tan, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, is reportedly deteriorating with each passing day. According to his family, his illness has progressed to the point where he can no longer recognize his own children during prison visits. Despite a report issued by the Adli Tıp Kurumu (Forensic Medicine Institute) stating that he is unfit to remain in prison, Tan has not been released. Tan was arrested in 2024 on allegations of “membership in an organization” and was sentenced to 4 years and 8 months in prison. His daughter stated that her father can no longer remember the names or faces of his children, forcing the family to reintroduce themselves during every visit. She also said that the family has not been informed about the stage of his illness, and that prison authorities have provided no information regarding medical examinations or hospital reports. According to the family, prison conditions are incompatible with Tan’s health needs, and they are deeply concerned for his life. Although he suffers from Alzheimer’s disease and isolation is known to worsen his condition, he continues to be held in a single-person cell. His family says that this has accelerated the progression of his illness. Hospital reports and the Forensic Medicine Institute’s assessment, together with a petition explaining his condition, were submitted to the prosecutor’s office. However, no response has reportedly been received. Tan’s family is calling for his release before it is too late.

Source

Contact

Van Type F High Security Closed Penal Institution

Phone: 0506 600 61 65

Mail: van.ftcik@adalet.gov.tr 

General Directorate of Prisons and Detention Houses

Phone: (0312) 507 04 00 – (0312) 507 04 01

Mail: cte@adalet.gov.tr 

Ministry of Justice – Republic of Türkiye

Phone: +90 (0312) 417 77 70

Mail: info@adalet.gov.tr

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