Urla Community Triumphs in Gökbey Ship Seizure Case

The people of Urla have won after 11 weeks of protests to remove the derelict ship named Gökbey, which was attempted to be dismantled without permission in Demircili Cove. Urla Mayor Selçuk Balkan stated, 'A court order for seizure has been issued. The process will now continue legally. If there is an appeal against the decision, the ship will be placed under guardianship; if there is no appeal process, it will be sent for dismantling in Aliağa.'

Reactions are growing against the 'Gökbey,' a derelict ship that was illegally pulled ashore and intended to be dismantled at Demircili Cove in the Urla district of İzmir. Approximately three months ago, the illegal ship dismantling activity was initiated, and the 11th protest organized by the Urla Municipality, Urla City Council, and environmental volunteers took place at Demircili Cove.

'THE COURT HAS SEIZED IT'

Urla Mayor Selçuk Balkan, who participated in the protest, said, 'Our struggle to protect our nature and living spaces at our Demircili beach for 11 weeks has yielded results. A court order for seizure has been issued. The process will now continue legally. If there is an appeal against the decision, the ship will be placed under guardianship; if there is no appeal process, it will be sent for dismantling in Aliağa. However, no matter the outcome, we now know that this derelict ship has no chance of remaining in Demircili. This is not just about the removal of a ship; it is the recognition of the patience, solidarity, and rightful struggle of people who love their city. The Demircili beach will breathe again. And we will never give up on protecting our nature. We sincerely thank everyone who has come together, raised their voices, worked hard, and stood shoulder to shoulder every Sunday during this process.'

Furthermore, the group reiterated their opposition to the planned marina project that is set to be constructed by crossing over to Çeşmealtı from Demircili Cove.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye