Dink Murder Trial Starts In Istanbul

"Eighteen suspects went on trial in Istanbul Monday for the January murder of ethnic Armenian journalist Hrant Dink, which sparked fears of rising nationalist and anti-minority violence in Turkey.

The trial behind closed doors began as Dink's family said the procedure was flawed because it excludes security officials who knew as early as 2006 of plans to kill Dink, but failed to act.

Police in Istanbul and the northern city of Trabzon, home to most of the suspects, are responsible for "extremely grave mistakes and almost intentional negligence," family lawyer Ergin Cinmen said outside the courthouse. The defendants "are just the tip of the iceberg," he said. "If public servants are not put on trial, the ruling will never satisfy justice and public conscience."

In an emotional written statements, Dink's widow Rakel and his brother Hosrof appealed to the court to shed light on the involvement of officials. "Have the courage to challenge them... Let the justice of God work through you so that the trial may become a point of enlightenment for Turkey," Rakel said."