Journalist Özlem Gürses was taken into custody after using the words, “as you can see, the ISIS structure, that is, the TSK-SMO structure, has made small gains in regions with a Kurdish population,” in a video published on her YouTube channel TV OZ. In the investigation initiated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, she faced charges of “insulting the institutions and organs of the state” and “deliberately spreading misleading information to the public.” The journalist was brought before a judge with a request for arrest, but was released under judicial control with house arrest and a travel ban (December 21).

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The house arrest imposed on journalist Özlem Gürses was lifted after 52 days. Her detention had been based on accusations of “insulting the institutions and organs of the State” and “publicly disseminating misleading information.” However, no indictment has yet been filed against her. (12 February)

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office issued an indictment against journalist Özlem Gürses on charges of “openly insulting the military organization of the State.” Gürses will stand trial facing a prison sentence of six months to two years. (18 February)