Story perspectives

Turkish Journalists Arrested for Insulting President Erdogan

12/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

Turkish journalist Arif Kocabiyik was arrested on December 8, 2025, for allegedly insulting President Erdogan during a street interview.
The arrest followed the detention of Hasan Köksoy, a fellow YouTube journalist, and participant Halil Kürklü, who recited a poem deemed insulting.
Both Hasan Köksoy and Halil Kürklü were charged with inciting public hatred.
Since September 2024, YouTubers must obtain a license from the Radio and Television Supreme Council.

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Story summary

Turkish journalist Arif Kocabiyik was arrested on December 8, 2025, for allegedly insulting President Erdogan during a street interview.
The arrest followed the detention of Hasan Köksoy, a fellow YouTube journalist, and participant Halil Kürklü, who recited a poem deemed insulting.
Both Hasan Köksoy and Halil Kürklü were charged with inciting public hatred.
Since September 2024, YouTubers must obtain a license from the Radio and Television Supreme Council.