According to unconfirmed reports, the incident allegedly occurred as Önal was leaving his hotel, where witnesses claim he was met with gunfire. One woman reportedly described the scene as "a clear execution." Dutch police have cordoned off the area but have released limited information.
Investigation Underway
Law enforcement in The Hague has reportedly launched an extensive search operation in the park surrounding the hotel and restaurant where the alleged incident occurred. Police dogs are said to be assisting in the search for evidence and potentially discarded weapons.
A police spokesperson has allegedly confirmed only that a victim has died, withholding further details as the investigation continues. No arrests have been reported at this time.
Background on Önal
Public records indicate that Cemil Önal fled to the Netherlands following the murder of Halil Falyalı. He was reportedly detained in 2023 but released in March after allegedly providing extensive testimony to Dutch and American intelligence services.
Önal had recently given an interview to Turkish Cypriot media in which he allegedly discussed money laundering operations and illegal betting networks and claimed to know compromising materials involving various Turkish officials.