Athens’ appeals court rejected extradition of three militaries, who had fled to Greece in helicopters after the coup attempt in Ankara, reports Naftemporiki.

The Greek judges have ruled that lives of the Turkish officers will under threat, if they send them off to their homeland. This statement was made by the prosecutor as well. On December 6, the court will examine the cases of another five Turkish soldiers.

Eight Turkish soldiers claimed, that they had not have any participation in the coup. According to them, if they return to Turkey, they might face a death penalty. Ankara has repeatedly required the extradition of the soldiers.