Prohibition of smoking in Turkish bars, cafes and restaurants led to bloodshed. The tragedy took place in Sarukhanli, where the customers shot the bar owner and wounded his partner after they were forbidden to smoke.

Resulting the incident Mayor of Sarukhanli stated that authorities should not prohibit smoking or introduce the alcohol law either.

The smoking law came into force on July 19, 2009. It incited serious public protests, particularly among owners of entertainment places that are intended to appeal the law.