ISTANBUL — A group of students at a secondary school in Uşak, western Turkey, violently assaulted an Afghan schoolgirl in an incident that has sparked widespread concern and condemnation.
The attack occurred on Saturday in the courtyard of Hasan Hilmi Secondary School, according to Turkish media reports.
Footage of the incident, described by some observers as bordering on a “lynching,” has circulated widely online, showing the harrowing scene.
Details of the attack
The altercation began when one female student confronted the Afghan girl alone. Unable to overpower her, the aggressor was soon joined by several classmates, escalating the situation into a group beating. The videos show multiple students kicking and striking the Afghan girl while she lay on the ground.
A local resident eventually intervened to stop the violence. Witnesses reported that the Afghan girl appeared unconscious after the assault, prompting calls for an ambulance.
While the exact cause of the altercation remains unclear, witnesses suggested that the violence was preceded by a verbal dispute between the Afghan girl and another student.
Family’s reaction
The family of the Afghan student expressed deep concern over the incident and stated that they would no longer allow their daughter to attend the school for her safety.
The attack has raised broader questions about societal anger and the treatment of immigrant communities in Turkey, particularly Afghan refugees.
Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the motives and circumstances behind the attack. The school and the education ministry have yet to issue a formal statement.
The incident has sparked debate over the rising tensions in Turkey regarding immigrant populations.
