Turkish authorities have detained 162 individuals during nationwide raids on LGBT organizations, as reported by the Anadolu news agency on Sunday, citing the prosecutor’s office.
These raids followed investigations into allegations that included “establishing an organization for committing crimes, prostitution, and obscenity,” as well as drug possession, according to reports.
Kaos GL, an organization advocating for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and broader queer communities (LGBTQ+), reported on social media that police entered their offices and arrested board members, as relayed by DPA.
The prosecutor’s office indicated that evidence suggested these organizations’ activities were influencing minors regarding their sexual orientation and gender identity, according to Anadolu.
Prosecutors Cite “Common Moral Values”
The prosecutor stated that these operations aimed to prevent such activities from being viewed as “normal in society, for the sake of children and to protect the institution of family and common moral values.” The raids were referred to as “My Family is Safe” operation.
Justice Minister Akin Gurlek noted that a review of financial reports from these associations revealed significant sums transferred from foreign public institutions. Investigations into the origins of these funds are currently underway, as reported by Anadolu.
Pressure on the queer community in Turkey has intensified under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government. The annual Pride march in Istanbul has been banned since 2015, and government officials, including the president, have repeatedly made anti-LGBT comments.
The raids took place at 38 locations, including homes, workplaces, and offices. In addition to Istanbul, affected cities included Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya. Authorities stated they are also seeking other individuals.
The Istanbul-based Association for Freedom of Expression reported on Saturday that numerous social media accounts belonging to these organizations had been blocked.
