Turkey Arrests 162 for Spreading Fear Online After School Shootings

In a swift and decisive crackdown, Turkish authorities have apprehended 162 individuals accused of exacerbating public fear and glorifying criminal acts through the dissemination of disturbing school shooting footage on social media platforms. The arrests, confirmed by Justice Minister Akin Gurlek, target those who shared videos linked to two tragic school shootings that have shaken the nation this week.

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They are accused of sharing footage that is connected to the attacks, despite a broadcast ban, thereby spreading fear in the public, celebrating crime, and encouraging the commission of criminal acts.

The incidents involved a shooting at a secondary school on Tuesday that left at least 16 people injured, followed by a horrific attack on Wednesday at another school which claimed the lives of ten individuals, the youngest victims being just ten years old. The gravity of these events has led to widespread grief, with hundreds gathering for the funerals of the young victims. The government's response aims to curb the spread of sensationalized content that could incite further violence or panic.

Minister Gurlek detailed that 95 individuals are currently in custody due to concerns about their online behavior post-attack. They are accused of sharing footage related to the shootings, despite broadcast bans, thereby spreading fear, celebrating crime, and encouraging further offenses. In addition to these detentions, restrictions have been imposed on 1,104 social media accounts to prevent the circulation of such harmful material. Furthermore, 67 other individuals have been detained for posting messages that predicted potential attacks on other schools, indicating a broader concern about online incitement.

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Restrictions have been imposed on 1,104 social media accounts.

This operation underscores Turkey's commitment to maintaining public order and preventing the misuse of social media for malicious purposes. While respecting freedom of expression, the authorities are drawing a firm line against content that incites violence, spreads fear, or glorifies criminal acts, particularly in the sensitive aftermath of tragic events. The government's firm stance aims to reassure the public and deter potential perpetrators by demonstrating a zero-tolerance policy towards online incitement and the spread of fear-mongering content.

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Another 67 people have been detained for sharing messages in which they predict that attacks could happen in other schools.