Six prominent Turkish journalists were summoned by police on Thursday for questioning over reports concerning Istanbul’s imprisoned opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu.
According to the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s Office, the journalists were called to testify as part of an investigation into the so-called “Imamoglu criminal organization for profit.” They were questioned on accusations of “publicly spreading false information and aiding a criminal organization,” though it remains unclear whether formal charges have been filed.
Imamoglu, a member of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) and widely regarded as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main political rival, has been detained since March following his arrest along with dozens of municipal officials on corruption allegations. He has yet to face trial.
His arrest sparked the largest street protests in Turkey in over a decade. CHP Deputy Chairman Burhanettin Bulut said police raided the journalists’ homes early Thursday, confiscating their phones.
“This is a clear attempt to intimidate and silence the opposition and the free press,” Bulut said, describing the incident as part of a “systematic witch hunt” against critical voices.
The journalists named by prosecutors are Soner Yalcin, Saban Sevinc, Asli Aydintasbas, Rusen Cakir, Yavuz Oghan, and Batuhan Colak — all known for questioning the legitimacy of the charges against Imamoglu, which many see as politically motivated.
Imamoglu also faces a separate espionage case filed on October 27.
According to Reporters Without Borders’ 2025 Press Freedom Index, Turkey ranks 159th out of 180 countries.
