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May 19, 2025 – Turkey –
Turkish journalist İsmail Arı, a reporter for the independent outlet BirGün, has been subjected to death threats following his investigative reporting on alleged bribery and corruption involving a public official. His exposé, which scrutinized questionable financial dealings and political connections, sparked backlash that quickly escalated into serious security concerns for both Arı and his family.
Shortly after the article was published, Arı began receiving threatening messages warning him to stop his reporting. One chilling message referenced his home address and suggested that Ankara, the capital where he resides, is “a small place,” implying he could be easily found and harmed. The threats weren’t limited to digital platforms—his family has also been targeted with menacing calls and intimidation attempts.
This campaign of harassment has drawn condemnation from press freedom organizations and media watchdogs. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) called on Turkish authorities to investigate the threats swiftly and ensure Arı’s safety. According to CPJ, this incident fits a troubling pattern in Turkey, where journalists covering sensitive political and financial matters often face intimidation, prosecution, or worse.
Arı, who has built a reputation for digging into issues of public accountability, remains defiant despite the threats. However, the danger he and his family face underlines the hazardous environment for journalists in Turkey, particularly those affiliated with independent and opposition media.
BirGün, known for its critical stance on government policies and corruption, has demanded an immediate response from law enforcement. The outlet emphasized that failing to protect journalists not only endangers individuals but also erodes the public’s right to be informed.
The case highlights broader concerns about press freedom in Turkey, where journalists are frequently criminalized or attacked for challenging power structures. Rights groups continue to urge the government to take meaningful steps to protect media workers, hold perpetrators accountable, and uphold journalistic freedom as a cornerstone of democracy.
As of now, no suspects have been identified, and the investigation into the threats remains ongoing.
Reference –
https://www.birgun.net/haber/threat-to-birgun-reporter-ismail-ari-623529
Turkish journalist, family receive death threats after reporting on bribery allegations
