Turkish Journalist Detained After Reporting on Nationalist Party Official

April 11, 2025 – Turkey –

In April 2025, Turkish journalist Furkan Karabay was detained after publishing a report alleging that a judiciary official from the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) was involved in an assault. Karabay, known for his investigative work, had recently written about alleged misconduct involving state officials. His arrest has drawn criticism from press freedom groups, who see it as another alarming step in Turkey’s ongoing crackdown on journalists.

Karabay’s case is not isolated. In recent months, Turkish authorities have escalated pressure on media professionals, particularly those reporting on government corruption, political violence, or human rights abuses. In February, four journalists—Yıldız Tar, Elif Akgül, Ercüment Akdeniz, and Ender İmrek—were detained during a broader police operation targeting opposition figures and activists. Their legal rights were reportedly violated, including being denied access to lawyers and information about the charges.

Another high-profile case involved investigative journalist Tolga Şardan, who was arrested under Turkey’s controversial “disinformation law” after reporting on alleged corruption within the judiciary. Şardan’s story, based on a leaked intelligence document, triggered his detention and sparked outcry from both domestic and international watchdogs.

These incidents highlight a deteriorating press freedom environment in Turkey. According to recent reports, dozens of journalists have been arrested or prosecuted in 2025 alone. Laws intended to combat “fake news” and protect national security are increasingly used to silence critical voices and prevent independent reporting.

Karabay’s detention, in particular, has raised concerns about the growing alliance between the judiciary and political elites, especially those aligned with nationalist or conservative factions. Rights organizations argue that this not only undermines journalistic independence but also erodes the rule of law.

The continued repression of journalists in Turkey suggests a broader trend of democratic backsliding. As the government tightens control over media narratives and criminalizes dissent, the space for free expression is shrinking. Press freedom groups have called for the immediate release of detained journalists and a repeal of laws that enable censorship and intimidation.

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Turkish journalist detained after reporting alleged assault of nationalist party official