The Freedom for Ill Prisoners Initiative made a press statement at the Human Rights Association (IHD) Ankara Branch today to draw attention, like every week, to the condition of sick prisoners.

The statement made by Nuray Çevirmen, member of the IHD Central Executive Committee, said: "About 190,000 prisoners are at risk in 355 prisons. Lastly, the Ministry of Justice shared information about the test results of 120 prisoners (all positive to coronavirus) in 4 prisons, but apart from that, prisons are virtually closed boxes."

Çevirmen drew attention to the health situation of Ismail Yılmaz, a 67-year-old prisoner held in Kandira No. 1 Type F Closed Prison. The IHD executive said that Yilmaz suffered from a heart problem and that despite this he has been alone for 16 years.

Çevirmen added: "It is not possible for Yılmaz to stay in prison as his life is at even a greater risk in this condition. He is in quarantine for 14 days because of  the pandemic. However, it is not possible for a person who underwent a difficult surgery to stay alone. Yılmaz and all ill prisoners should be released immediately."