The court had previously ordered the arrest of the three individuals, two of them teachers at the girl's high school in the Kurdish city of Urfa, after the girl testified on Friday to the school counselor about the sexual abuse against her. After the prosecutor called the three suspects in to give their testimony, the court decided to let all three walk free. What will happen when school starts again on Monday, and whether the court has taken any measures for the girl's protection, is unknown.

According to Turkish law on child sexual abuse cases, the victim needs to be seen in a hospital. Lawyers have not yet been able to determine whether this law was obeyed or why the three suspects were released.

The Urfa Bar Association is investigating the court's decision.

(fk/cm)