Feb 20 β€’ 02:18 UTC πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺ Germany FAZ

In Turkey: Journalist of Deutsche Welle 'arrested like a serious criminal'

A Deutsche Welle journalist was arrested in Turkey for criticizing government policies on social media, raising concerns about press freedom.

In Turkey, a journalist from Deutsche Welle named Alican Uludag has been arrested on charges of "insulting the president" and "spreading misleading information." This arrest has occurred in Ankara, likely due to a post he made on social media regarding Turkish government operations from over a year ago. The Turkish authorities have indicated that his comments may have angered those in power.

Uludag had criticized government actions related to the release of potential fighters linked to the Islamic State militant group in his online post, which has now led to his legal troubles. The implication of his arrest signifies a troubling trend in Turkey, where government scrutiny and penal action against dissenting voices seem to be increasing, particularly in the context of social media.

Deutsche Welle has issued a statement affirming their concern and calling for his immediate release, pointing to the serious implications for journalistic freedom in the country. The incident highlights broader issues of press censorship and the dangers faced by journalists reporting on sensitive political matters in Turkey, underscoring the broader international concerns regarding human rights and freedom of speech in the region.

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