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September 12, 2024 – Turkey –
Investigative journalist Murat Ağırel, a prominent reporter for the Turkish daily Yeniçağ, is facing a growing wave of death threats and intimidation due to his reporting on corruption and criminal networks. His case has triggered alarm among international press freedom groups, who are calling on Turkish authorities to take immediate action to protect him and his family.
The threats against Ağırel began in late 2023 and intensified throughout 2024. He reported receiving anonymous death threats on social media after publishing investigations into financial misconduct, illegal betting rings, and alleged connections between criminal organizations and political figures. In May and June 2024, the harassment escalated to physical surveillance. Ağırel’s home and car were monitored, and masked individuals were seen filming his movements. His wife and daughter were also reportedly followed.
On September 3, 2024, a masked man published a video online stating that a contract had been issued for Ağırel’s murder. The video referenced political backing for the threat, further raising concerns about possible state-linked involvement. Two suspects were later arrested, but the broader threat environment remains unresolved.
A coalition of 23 press freedom organizations—including IFJ, EFJ, ARTICLE 19, IPI, CPJ, and Turkey’s Media and Law Studies Association—has condemned the threats and urged Turkish authorities to ensure Ağırel’s safety. They are demanding a transparent investigation into the threats and accountability for those responsible.
This incident reflects the broader deterioration of press freedom in Turkey, where journalists face arbitrary arrests, surveillance, and judicial harassment. Turkey currently ranks 159th out of 180 countries in Reporters Without Borders’ 2025 Press Freedom Index.
Ağırel has previously served prison time for his reporting and continues to face ongoing legal pressure. Press advocates warn that his case sets a dangerous precedent for the safety of investigative journalists in Turkey.
The coalition has called on the Turkish government to provide immediate protection, investigate political connections to the threats, and enact legal reforms to safeguard journalists. Without decisive action, Murat Ağırel’s life—and press freedom in Turkey—remains in grave danger.
Reference –
https://fom.coe.int/en/alerte/detail/107641518
Türkiye: Protect journalist Murat Ağırel amid escalating death threats
