US police arrest suspect in Turkish House attack in New York

TORONTO

The suspect accused of attacking the Turkish House in New York City earlier this week has been taken into custody, the New York Police Department announced Friday.

Recep Akbiyik, 29, has been charged with seven counts, including burglary, making a terroristic threat, criminal mischief, menacing and criminal possession of a weapon.

Akbiyik was put in a police vehicle in handcuffs, accompanied by two police officers late Friday.

The suspect, who was taken to court, is expected to appear in court later Friday.

He was taken into custody at 10.15 a.m. local time, according to a police statement.

On Wednesday, authorities identified Akbiyik as the primary suspect in the early Monday attack that damaged the building, also known as the Turkevi Center. Video footage obtained by Anadolu depicts an assailant smashing the windows of the building at 3.14 a.m. with a crowbar.

The center houses diplomatic offices, including Türkiye's UN Mission and New York Consulate General. Turkish authorities strongly condemned the attack and urge their US counterparts to provide necessary protection to ensure the safety of its diplomatic missions.

The investigation into the suspect remains ongoing, according to sources who spoke to Anadolu on condition of anonymity.