Public order problems in Afyonkarahisar During the War of Independence

The National Struggle, a crucial turning point in Turkish history, was not only a war fought against occupying forces but also a period in which efforts were made to establish internal order. This study specifically aims to examine the law and order problems and gang activities during this period, focusing on the case of Afyonkarahisar. During the period from the beginning of the National Struggle to the proclamation of the Republic, the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the economic, social, and cultural turmoil in the occupied regions created significant challenges in maintaining law and order. The military and administrative vacuum that occurred across the country and in Afyonkarahisar immediately after the signing of the Armistice of Mudros on October 30, 1918, is addressed. During this period, as in the rest of the country, alongside the struggle of the people of Afyonkarahisar against the occupying forces, various criminal organizations, bandits, and gangs emerged at the local level. These individuals and groups sometimes collaborated with the occupying forces, while at other times, they emerged as corrupt and uncontrollable powers that threatened the lives, property, and security of the local population. In the early years of the National Struggle, this study examines how gang activities were shaped, how local powers exploited the situation, and the strategies developed by the people of Afyonkarahisar to counter these threats. The activities of the gangs generally led to armed conflicts at the local level, village raids, and kidnappings, causing a significant security issue among the local population. In addressing this topic, the study will primarily rely on archival documents, the Taşpınar Journal, Provincial Yearbooks (Vilayet Salnameleri), interviews with witnesses of the era, and the prominent local newspapers of the time for analysis.