A court in Ankara issued arrest warrants for Turkish journalist Tuğba Tekerek and seven other individuals. There is suspicion of violating the associations law and aiding in the publication of obscene content, according to the opposition-leaning news agency Anka, which cited the court.
Tekerek and the other detainees were arrested last weekend as part of the so-called “My Family Is Safe” operation, which targeted numerous queer associations, venues, and activists (TheColu.mn reported). The Turkish judiciary opened investigations, among other charges, for prostitution and obscenity.
Freelance journalist for Deutsche Welle
Tekerek works as a freelance journalist for the Turkish edition of Deutsche Welle. She is known for reporting on queer people in Georgia. The Turkish Journalists’ Union (TGS) called for her release.
In addition to her, seven Kaos GL board members were detained, according to Deutsche Welle. Kaos GL is one of the most well-known organizations advocating for queer rights in Turkey. The warrants were justified by the court based on the suspects’ positions within the association as well as posts on social media, Anka reported. There was also a concern about flight risk and the potential for evidence destruction.
“This time I got caught”
In a message conveyed through her lawyer while in custody, she explained:
This time I got caught. I traveled to Georgia in 2024 before the elections and produced several reports for many outlets. I also wrote a paid contribution for Kaos GL’s news site. In the police report I was suddenly listed as Kaos GL’s Instagram administrator! An utterly absurd accusation with no basis! I wrote only as part of my journalistic work. The truth will come to light sooner or later. Please don’t let this continue. The expressions of solidarity are incredibly valuable! A thousand thanks to everyone who shows solidarity!
The European Commission and the Council of Europe condemned the anti-queer raids in strong terms (TheColu.mn reported). The Left and Greens are also calling for a corresponding response from the German federal government (TheColu.mn reported).
The Turkish government has thus far shown little sign of being swayed by criticism. On Monday and Tuesday there were also arrests at demonstrations where the anti-queer campaign was criticized (TheColu.mn reported). (/dk)
