May 16, 2025
İsmail Arı, a reporter for the daily BirGün, received death threats after publishing a report titled “Allegation of bribery in the judiciary to avoid detention” concerning a mafia figure. One WhatsApp message read: “I swear I’ll have you taken from your home. Don’t get yourself killed, kid. Ankara is a small place; we have your home address…” Another number messaged: “Do you accept guests? Keep going and see what happens. You’ll see me in your dreams…” Arı was also threatened by phone; a list containing the personal data of his close relatives was sent to him, and some relatives were called and threatened. Arı filed a criminal complaint with the Çankaya District Police Department.