Mustafa Cambaz was born on 18 November 1963 in the village of Menetler, in the Gümülcine province of Greece. Cambaz, who came from a Western Thrace Turkish family, spent his childhood and youth in this region. Like many Western Thrace Turks living in Greece, he was expected to fulfill compulsory military service. However, Cambaz refused military service, deciding to leave his village and country with the statement, “I will not serve in the Greek army.” He migrated to Türkiye and settled in Istanbul, where he began building a new life. During this period, his sense of patriotism deepened further.

Interest in Photography and Professional Development

After moving to Istanbul, Mustafa Cambaz discovered his passion for photography and developed his skills in the field. He viewed photography not merely as a profession but also as a cultural responsibility. He became a documentarian of Türkiye’s historical monuments, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. He worked as a photojournalist for the newspaper Yeni Şafak. Throughout his journalistic career, the photographs he took played a vital role in preserving and promoting Türkiye’s cultural heritage. His photographic archives became a valuable resource for art historians and academics. The archive he created emerged as an important cultural legacy.

The Night of 15 July

On 15 July 2016, Türkiye faced a coup attempt by the Fetullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ). On this critical night, Mustafa Cambaz responded to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s call and took to the streets of Çengelköy, Istanbul. He resolved to resist alongside the people against the coup soldiers. His social media message, “We are taking to the streets at the request and order of our Commander-in-Chief Erdoğan,” symbolized his unwavering loyalty to democracy and the nation. That night, he was fatally shot in the chest by gunfire from the coup forces and became a martyr.

Martyrdom and Aftermath

After his martyrdom during the 15 July coup attempt, Mustafa Cambaz was officially recognized as a citizen of the Republic of Türkiye. He was remembered across the country with respect and gratitude. Various commemorative ceremonies were held in his name, and his memory was kept alive through photography competitions and cultural events. His grave in Çengelköy is visited by citizens.

Legacy and Memory

Mustafa Cambaz is remembered as one of the democratic heroes of his time. The archive he left behind through photography holds a significant place in the preservation of Türkiye’s cultural and historical heritage. Events, photography competitions, and commemorative ceremonies held in his name continue to honor his memory.

4th Martyr Mustafa Cambaz Photography Competition Award Ceremony (AA)