The ‘Internal Security package’ that gives police extra powers, including the right to shoot to kill, has been passed by the Turkish Parliament after an all-night session.

The draft law (on changes to be made to the law on police powers and on certain laws and executive orders) submitted by the AKP government to parliament, and known as the ‘Internal Security package’ in Turkey, has gone through parliament.

In the provisions of the new legislation Molotov cocktails are included within the definition of arms and police are given the power to shoot to kill persons carrying such weapons.  

The law also bans the traditional Kurdish "şal û şapik" on the grounds it "resembles the uniform of the organisation” and foresees the arrest of those who cover their face with the traditional ‘pûşi.’ Body and vehicles searches will also be allowed without specific permission and police will be allowed to ‘set up police stations in houses’. It will also be possible to declare certain areas “military forbidden areas” on the grounds of  “lack of security” and it will be possible for the authorities to evacuate areas.

In circumstances where it is considered there would be a delay, a written order from the chief of police or head of the intelligence organisation will be sufficient for the telephones or telecommunications of citizens to be tapped, and only be submitted to a judge for approval after 48 hours, instead of the previous 24 hours.  

The new legislation also gives broad powers to governors, allowing them to ban protests, order arrests and assign armed units. Governors will also be able to order the security forces to make arrests.