Haluk Levent: Turkish police arrest singer and NGO founder

Turkish rock musician and activist Haluk Levent has been arrested, according to media reports. The 57-year-old artist, known for his humanitarian work, was reportedly detained by financial police officers in Bursa, in northwestern Turkey.

The arrest warrant was issued by the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office as part of an investigation into Levent's non-governmental organization, Ahbap. Reports from opposition newspaper Birgün and the left-leaning daily Sözcü indicate that Levent is accused of violating association law, money laundering, and involvement in an organized criminal group.

Ahbap, founded by Levent in 2017, gained significant public recognition for its extensive volunteer network and its crucial role in providing aid to those affected by the devastating earthquakes in southeastern Turkey in February 2023. The earthquakes resulted in over 53,500 fatalities.

Levent, who describes his music as a blend of Turkish folk music and Western rock, enjoys considerable respect among the Turkish population, not only for his music but also for his extensive humanitarian efforts. He is expected to be brought before a judge in Istanbul's Çağlayan Courthouse, though a specific date for this appearance has not yet been set.