Journalist Ismail Ari Detained Again Over RTÜK Chief Complaint

BirGün journalist Ismail Ari was detained after being summoned to the Ankara Police Department Security Branch Directorate at 15:30 on October 20, 2026. He spent one night in custody before being sent to a courthouse.

Ari faces charges of "insulting a public official in the performance of duty" and "publishing misleading information to the public." The complaint was filed by former RTÜK Chairman Ebubekir Sahin.

“I did not act with the intent to disturb anyone's peace and tranquility. I have no posts containing insults. I also did not share any misleading information.”

This is Ari's second detention within a year. He was previously detained on March 21 in Turhal, Tokat, and arrested on March 22, spending 75 days in custody.

During his prosecutor's statement, Ari denied the accusations and said he made no insulting or misleading posts. The prosecution requested his arrest and sent him to a judge.

No information was provided on whether a judicial control or arrest order was issued after he was sent to court.

The case is part of a broader wave of journalist detentions linked to criticism of the government over a fund embezzlement scandal.