Turkish military personnel lose initial Greek asylum bid
ATHENS, Greece – Greek immigration officials say they have rejected asylum applications from three of eight Turkish military personnel who fled to Greece in a military helicopter the day after an abortive coup.
Turkey is seeking the extradition of the helicopter crew members, who deny involvement in the July 15 coup attempt and say their lives will be in danger, if they are returned.
Lawyer Stavroula Tomara, who represents the Turks, says her clients will appeal Wednesday’s decision. While immigration authorities are responsible for asylum applications, it is up to Greek courts to decide Turkey’s extradition request.
No decision has been issued for the other five men.
Meanwhile, Greek police say a Turkish couple who arrived in a small boat with their six children on the island of Rhodes Tuesday also is requesting asylum.
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