Ece Gürel, who went missing after leaving her home in Kağıthane Gültepe Mahallesi on Sunday, March 2nd, to visit Belgrad Forest, has been found safe after four days of search efforts. The 36-year-old woman was discovered asleep in the forest by a team of 4 rapid response officers and 12 members of a civil society organization at 01:15. She was found conscious and was later taken to the hospital for precautionary measures as she was lightly injured.
Ece Gürel’s husband, Sezer Gürel, spoke to her on the phone before she was transported by ambulance. Overwhelmed with joy, Sezer Gürel shed tears of relief upon hearing the news. He expressed his gratitude to the teams who found his wife, while health and search and rescue teams comforted Ece Gürel.
The police closed off roads leading to the forest and took extensive security measures to ensure the safety of the area. Alongside the National Medical Rescue Team (UMKE) and police forces, health teams were also dispatched to the forest. The Istanbul Governor’s Office confirmed the successful rescue, stating that Ece Gürel was found safe and taken to the hospital for further care.
Footage capturing the moment of Gürel’s discovery has emerged, showing her awake and alert. Istanbul Governor Davut Gül provided an update on Gürel’s condition, thanking all the teams and volunteers who participated in the search and rescue operations.
Initially reported missing by her family after leaving her home to visit Belgrad Forest, Ece Gürel’s disappearance sparked a large-scale search effort involving police, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the National Medical Rescue Team (UMKE), the Search and Rescue Association (AKUT), and various district municipality search and rescue teams. The Istanbul Fire Department’s Underwater Search and Rescue (İSAK) divers conducted searches in the Valide Sultan Dam as part of the operation.
Gürel’s belongings, including her cell phone and personal items, were found in the forest during the search. Surveillance footage from her home and the bus she took to the forest entrance provided crucial clues about her movements.
In conclusion, the successful rescue of Ece Gürel after days of intense search efforts is a testament to the dedication and coordination of the various teams involved. The relief felt by her loved ones and the community at large underscores the importance of timely and effective search and rescue operations in ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals.
