Journalists across Turkey, including prominent Mezopotamya Women Journalists Association (MKG) Chair Roza Metina, were detained on Tuesday morning during a police operation. Raids targeted homes in five cities — Diyarbakır (Amed), İstanbul, Mardin (Mêrdîn), Şanlıurfa (Riha), and Şırnak (Şirnex) — as part of an Eskişehir-centred investigation.
MKG condemned the arrests, asserting in a written statement that the operation reflects “systematic attacks” on women’s rights and press freedom. The association called for solidarity, urging “all individuals and institutions defending the public’s right to information” to unite.
The operation, which included the search of journalist Gülcan Dereli’s home, occurred days after the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. MKG emphasised that such actions undermine democracy and the constitutional right to freedom of expression. “Today’s events demonstrate escalating pressure on free media, particularly women journalists,” the statement read.
MKG reaffirmed its commitment to protecting journalists’ rights and being the public’s voice, rejecting intimidation tactics. The association demanded the immediate release of detained journalists and an end to policies infringing press freedom.
The arrests have raised concerns among press and human rights organisations, who argue the actions impede the public’s access to truthful reporting. Critics warn that targeting journalists stifles free expression and deters efforts to expose critical issues, particularly those concerning women’s rights.
Authorities have yet to provide detailed justifications for the detentions. Advocates for press freedom stress the urgency of safeguarding journalists’ rights in Turkey’s increasingly restrictive environment.
