The demise of their father, who was captured in the horrific earthquake that struck Syria and Turkey, has been verified by a Melbourne family.
According to reports, Suat Bayram, 69, was in Turkey visiting family when the building they were in fell.
On Saturday morning, his family announced his passing on social media. They expressed their profound sorrow and requested privacy so they could grieve.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) expressed its “deep sadness” at reports of Australian fatalities in a statement and condolences to the families.
Family members in Türkiye have identified the bodies of an Australian woman and an Australian man, and DFAT is offering consular support to their families.
“About 80 Australians and their families who were in the earthquake area are being supported by our personnel in Turkey and Lebanon.
In challenging circumstances, the Australian diplomatic posts in Ankara, Istanbul, and Beirut are doing everything they can to support families and connect with any Australians who are rumored to be in the area.
It stated that although rumours of the passing of another Australian man have not yet been verified, the government is offering his family consular support.
Nearly 24,000 people have died as a result of the crisis in Syria and Turkey, along with at least 80,000 injuries and millions of displaced people.
Imren Bayram, the daughter of Mr. Bayram, turned to social media yesterday to appeal for immediate assistance in locating her father.
“In Turkey, my father is still missing. Five days have passed since the earthquake, “She spoke.
“The Australian government hasn’t responded or helped in any way.
“I am formally requesting that the Australian government dispatch aid and support to the location of my father. Time is of the essence!”
Ms. Bayram claimed that when she contacted Penny Wong, the minister of foreign affairs, she was informed that “no one was available to speak with” and that she should schedule a meeting days in advance.
The whereabouts of her father had been disclosed to international assistance organizations, according to Ms. Bayram, but “there is still no Australian aid in Turkey as of yet.”
Chris Bowen, a cabinet minister, stated that he was unable to release any additional details at this time.
I believe that gentleman’s daughter made the news, Mr. Bowen remarked.
“The government’s hearts, and I’m sure every Australian’s heart goes to that family and the family of the other Australian deceased – and indeed to everyone devastated by this earthquake,” the government said.
