Breaking News... He had been detained: Timur Soykan released under judicial control

Journalist and BirGün columnist Timur Soykan was detained on July 5, 2025, due to critical posts he made on social media regarding operations targeting CHP-run municipalities. An investigation was launched by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against Soykan, who was alleged to have provided information to the public and made oppositional comments in his posts.

After his procedures at the police station, Soykan was referred to the courthouse, where the prosecutor's office requested his arrest on charges of "incitement to commit a crime" and "publicly spreading misleading information." The file was sent to the Istanbul Criminal Court of Peace.

JUDICIAL CONTROL MEASURES IMPOSED

The court rejected the request for Soykan's arrest. The journalist was released under judicial control, with a travel ban and the obligation to report to a police station once a week.

REACTION FROM JOURNALISM ORGANIZATIONS

The detention and arrest request for Timur Soykan drew reactions from journalism professional organizations. The Journalists Association of Turkey (TGC), the Journalists Union of Turkey (TGS), DİSK Basın-İş, and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) announced their support for Soykan with a statement made in front of the Çağlayan Courthouse. Representatives delivered the message, "Journalism is not a crime."

Photo: Sercan Meriç

News Source: 12punto