Worker Seeking Compensation from Çalık Holding Beaten to Death in Front of Company Headquarters

A tragic incident occurred in Şişli, Istanbul, on May 9, 2025, when 48-year-old Erol Eğrek, a former employee of Çalık Holding, was brutally assaulted in front of the company’s headquarters while demanding his 7 million TL compensation from his tenure in Turkmenistan. Despite winning multiple lawsuits, Eğrek had not received his severance pay, leading him to confront the company directly.

 

Violent Confrontation Ends in Tragedy

According to reports, Eğrek arrived at the building and tensions escalated. Allegedly, he pulled out a firearm, prompting security personnel to intervene. He was then overpowered and beaten by approximately 10 individuals.

 

Hospitalization and Death

Following the severe beating, Eğrek was rushed to Okmeydanı Cemil Taşçıoğlu State Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. His body was later transferred to the Forensic Medicine Institute for an autopsy. Family members insist that his death resulted from the assault, despite claims that his official cause of death was listed as a heart attack.

 

Legal and Public Reactions

The incident has sparked outrage, with six individuals, including a police officer, taken into custody. Çalık Holding issued a statement, claiming that Eğrek had already received his compensation and accusing him of making false allegations against the company. However, workers’ unions and activists argue that the case reflects broader issues of labor rights violations and corporate impunity