THE two uncles accused of killing 15-year-old Tulay Goren have been acquitted.

Cuma Goren, 43, of Evesham Avenue, Walthamstow, and Ali Goren, 56, of Brettenham Road, Walthamstow, were cleared by a jury at The Old Bailey today.

They were acquitted of both murder and conspiring to murder Tulay's boyfriend, Halil Unal.

The father of Tulay has been convicted of murdering her for the family's "honour".

Mehmet Goren, 49, of Navestock Crescent, Woodford Green was found guilty of murdering his daughter.

He has been sentenced to life imprisonment and will serve a minimum of 22 years.

Mehmet was acquitted of conspiring to murder Tulay's boyfriend, Halil Unal.

DCI John Macdonald of the Homicide and Serious Crime Command said: "Although it has taken some time, there has finally been some justice for Tulay.

"There should be no place in any society for the outdated feudal beliefs that led to this murder.

"I would like to give special mention to Tulay's mother, Hanim, and her sister, Nuray, who both gave vital evidence in this case, whilst under great pressure."

Tulay's sister, Nuray, wrote a family impact statement.

She said: "Tulay was caught in the middle of two clashing worlds. At home she was expected to be a dutiful Turkish daughter, whilst out of the family home she was exposed to a lifestyle that was completely at odds with her upbringing.

"So much of our tradition and custom stood in the way of what Tulay ultimately wanted.

"For my father I have only one request. I ask that he finally disclose the whereabouts of my sister.

"My mother and I have a message for women who feel that they have no voice. Let them find the courage to come forward to the authorities and speak out. Let them know that like us they will be listened to and taken seriously."

Detective Chief Inspector Gerry Campbell of the Met's Violent Crime Directorate, with responsibility for Honour Based Violence [HBV], said: "I want to be absolutely clear that there is no honour in the murder of another human being.

"Where is the honour in the murder of a defenceless child - a 15-year-old girl? There is no romantic notion of honour in such cases. It is about crime; murder, rape, serious physical assaults, kidnap and so the list goes on.

"The Metropolitan Police Service is resolute in its commitment and determination to tackle and prevent all forms of violence against women and girls, including honour based violence and domestic violence.

"I want anyone who is being assaulted or threatened by family or community members to come forward and report those crimes or concerns to police. You will be believed. We will ensure you are supported, are given personal safety advice and directed to other specialist assistance."