Xelîl Osman Hemê, known as Apê (Uncle) Nemir, one of the symbols of Kobanê resistance, died of a heart attack on Monday, October 14, and was laid to rest at the Şehîd Dîcle Cemetery of Martyrs in Kobanê today.

Speaking at the ceremony, İsmail Ali, a member of the Euphrates Canton War Veterans Federation, said: “Apê Nemir took part in the struggle on all the streets and fronts of Kobanê with great devotion. He fought for this land with great sacrifice and continued to fight until the end. As war veterans, we will continue to keep the legacy of our martyrs alive.”

Leyla Ahmed, member of the Women's Assembly of the Euphrates Canton, said: “This struggle is very valuable to us and we will never give up. Everyone should know that if there is resistance, no one can stand against us. When Leader Apo (Abdullah Öcalan) declared mobilisation, Apê Nemir was on the front line of the resistance.”

Ismail Ismail, President of the Euphrates Canton Military Council, stated the following: “Apê Nemir fought for Kobanê and its people. He took his place in the resistance and stood against the invaders. He became a symbol of the Kobanê resistance.”

Apê Nemir's daughter Şemsê Mihemed said: “This struggle is an honour to us and we are ready to make sacrifices for freedom together with our children. Knowing that I sacrificed a part of my own life, I will never give up this struggle. Apê Nemir always advised us to stand by our martyrs and our leader. We are on the right path.”

After the speeches, prayers were recited and the body was handed over to the family.