A man seen here violently beating his girlfriend after she told him she wanted to break up has defended his behaviour by saying he had an anxiety attack.

The claim was made during the start of the court case at the Istanbul 30th Criminal Court of First Instance against Mehmet Hanifi Bozaslan, whose age was not given, who is accused of making threats and assault.

The victim, Tugba Ercakar, 26, said she tried to fight back after the unprovoked attack, but eventually gave up as he rained blows upon her.

The incident took place in the district of Sisli in the north-western Turkish city of Istanbul on 9th December.

The victim was at a friend’s house when she was tracked down by her ex-boyfriend to confront her over her decision to end the relationship.

However, as soon as Mehmet entered the house, there was very little discussion and he simply punched her in the head, as seen in the footage.

The video shows the friend attempting to stop the furious assault but can do no more than calling the police as he continues to pummel her.

After the incident, Tugba filed a complaint with the police and was able to hand over the CCTV footage from her friend’s apartment.

A statement from the Istanbul Police Department obtained by Newsflash said: “Tugba Ercakar filed a complaint with us stating that she had been dating a person named Mehmet Hanifi Bozaslan for about six weeks, and after constant arguing with him over his jealous behaviour, Bozaslan attacked her and threatened to kill her.

“The suspect was taken into custody. Later Mehmet Hanifi Bozaslan was released by the court and placed under judicial control on 10th December.”

Later, Mehmet was taken into custody for the second time on 13th December for continuing to threaten the victim, according to local media.

The case sparked outrage from women’s rights groups over the fact that he was released in the first place after such a violent attack.

Tugba said: “For the first time in my life, I really thought that I was going to die. I want help from everyone to see justice served.”

The court heard evidence from prosecutors and defence with the defence claiming that he should be acquitted and if there is a conviction, then a fine would be a suitable punishment for what happened given the circumstances.

His lawyer told the court: “As can be seen from the camera recording, it is clear that the client is not in good mental health and balance.

“The client already does not remember how these happened and regrets them. He is psychologically disturbed. He is suffering from anxiety and panic attacks, and we have provided prescriptions and documents regarding these problems.”

It is not yet known when the next hearing will take place. The case continues.