Turkey’s far-right Victory Party (ZP) leader Ümit Özdağ was arrested on Tuesday, accused of inciting public hatred and hostility, following controversial remarks made at a party meeting in Antalya.
İstanbul prosecutors launched an investigation into Özdağ’s comments, alleging they promoted animosity among the public. His detention comes amid separate accusations of insulting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, expanding legal scrutiny into his rhetoric.
Prosecutors requested Özdağ’s arrest on charges of openly inciting public hatred, a serious offence under Turkish law. He was detained in Ankara and brought before a court, which ordered his formal arrest.
Known for his vehement anti-migrant stance, Özdağ has faced growing criticism for fuelling social tensions with hate-filled statements under the guise of political discourse.
