Turkish authorities launch anti-LGBTQ raids, detaining dozens
Turkish police raid LGBTQ groups across major cities, detaining at least 63 in a major crackdown.
Turkish police have detained dozens of people after conducting nationwide raids targeting LGBTQ organisations.
Police swooped on gay bars, offices and homes of activists in major cities including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Mersin on Sunday, escalating Turkiye’s decade-long hostility towards LGBTQ groups.
State news agency Anadolu quoted prosecutors in Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir as saying that at least 63 people were detained, the AFP news agency reported.
“As per the duty to protect families and children given to the state by the constitution, no criminal organization, abuse network or illegal activity which targets children, youths or families will be tolerated!” Gurlek wrote on X.