Publisher Nafiz Koca Shot in Elazığ, Turkey

October 15, 2025 – Turkey – 

A shocking attack targeted Turkish publisher Mehmet Nafiz Koca, head of the Elazığ Press and Media Society and owner of the newspapers Günışığı and Yeni Ufuk. Koca was shot with a shotgun outside his office in the eastern Turkish city of Elazığ. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the moment the assailant approached and opened fire while Koca was seated in a gazebo in front of the newspaper building.

Koca was hit in the leg, suffering a serious wound but avoiding life-threatening injuries. He was immediately transferred to Fırat University Hospital, where doctors confirmed that the bullet did not damage bones or arteries. Authorities launched a manhunt for the perpetrator, who fled the scene right after the shooting. Police have not yet announced any arrests, but local reports indicate that initial statements have been collected from witnesses and nearby businesses.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the attack, urging Turkish authorities to investigate swiftly and transparently, with particular attention to whether the assault was linked to Koca’s work as a journalist and media owner. Press freedom organizations stressed that Turkey has a troubling record of violence, harassment, and intimidation against journalists, and that impunity in such cases risks emboldening future attacks.

Koca’s leadership in the Elazığ Press and Media Society has made him a prominent figure in the region’s media landscape. His publications are known for their coverage of local politics, social issues, and government accountability, which observers say may have made him a target. The nature of the attack—carried out in broad daylight and in front of his workplace—has raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists operating outside major urban centers in Turkey.

Press freedom groups have reiterated that any failure to ensure justice in this case would reinforce a climate of fear and intimidation. They have called on Turkish authorities to treat this case with urgency, protect Koca and his colleagues, and ensure accountability for the attacker.

Reference – 

https://en.haberler.com/attack-on-the-journalist-with-a-shotgun-the-19146974/

Local publisher Nafiz Koca shot in Elazığ, Turkey