Murat Ağırel announces death threats: I will not give up journalism
Journalist Murat Ağırel has announced that he has received death threats via social media, emphasizing once again that he will not compromise his professional stance.
12punto
Known for his investigative journalism and writings on organized crime, Murat Ağırel has shared the threats he has received in recent days through messages posted on his social media account. Stating that he has been targeted following his reports on sensitive topics such as drugs, illegal betting, and money laundering, Ağırel revealed that he has been subjected to messages containing insults and death threats.
In his post, Ağırel stated, "Because of my reports and books on drugs, illegal betting, and money laundering relations—in other words, because of my journalistic work—I am receiving organized messages of insults, threats, and death threats. Criticism is welcome; however, threats and insults are exactly the work of the actors involved in the subjects I write about." He noted that he has received even more severe threats from some individuals.
He added that phrases such as "Mehmet Ağar has put you under the lens" were among the messages.
By exposing and sharing only a few examples of these threats with his readers, Ağırel said that such attacks would not shake his commitment to the journalistic profession. Stating that the necessary legal steps have been taken through his lawyers, the journalist demonstrated his determination with the words, "I don't know how many times I have written this sentence, but I say 'Bring it on' once again."
Emphasizing that despite all kinds of pressure and threats, he will not stop pursuing crime and illegal relations, regardless of who they belong to, Ağırel reiterated his words by saying, “Regardless of their color, team, name, institution, or company, I will continue to pursue them. I will not take a step back from journalism.”
At the end of his message, Ağırel once again repeated that he would not compromise on journalism, stating, “I have written. I am writing. I will write… I will continue to throw a wrench in your dirty gears.”
The veteran journalist had previously become a target for some Galatasaray fans who hid their identities after he shared reports on betting scandals with the public.