ANCA welcomes Washington’s investigation on Erdogan’s involvement in DC protest attack

YEREVAN, JUNE 16, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) welcomed, as a meaningful step toward justice, Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s and Police Chief Peter Newsham’s in-depth investigation that led to 18 arrest warrants – including a dozen against Turkish President Recep Erdogan’s bodyguards -- in connection to the May 16th attacks on peaceful protesters outside the Turkish Ambassador's residence, ANCA reports.

“We commend the efforts of Mayor Bowser, Chief Newsham and all the law enforcement agencies involved in taking this step toward bringing the perpetrators to justice, and look forward to continuing to work with the relevant authorities to identify all involved,” said ANCA Exective Director Aram Hamparian. “Law enforcement is doing its part; now it’s time for the Trump Administration to take action and demand that Turkey lift any claims to diplomatic immunity for those involved in this crime, so that criminal proceedings can move forward and justice can be served”.

During a June 15 press conference, DC Police Chief Peter Newsham announced the names of the dozen members of Turkish President Erdogan’s security detail who have been charged with the attacks. Two Turkish-Americans have already been arrested for assault, and two Turkish Canadians have also been charged.

In response to a question from The Armenian Weekly, Chief Newsham acknowledged that investigators are looking into the role of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the May 16 attack, but indicated that, despite the available video and other evidence, there is not yet sufficient probable cause to seek his arrest.