Journalist has been charged under Turkey’s disinformation law after exposing state-affiliated criminal networks

Kurdish journalist Rabia Önver, known for her investigative work at JINNEWS, is on the doorstep Law enforcement violated Turkey’s disinformation law after publishing reports on prostitution and drug trafficking networks in Hakkari (Colemêrg). Authorities accuse Önver of “publicly disseminating misleading information,” which many see as an attempt to suppress critical journalism.

Open verse Investigation uncovered criminal operations in Hakkari allegedly involving individuals with ties to local authorities, including law enforcement and judicial officials. Their reports shed light on how figures like Ayşegül Akdoğan, accused of running prostitution and drug rings, were protected by those in power, creating an environment of impunity.

Press organizations have condemned the allegations, with many pointing out that Turkey is increasingly using the disinformation law to silence independent reporting. “This investigation is an attempt to silence the free press,” said Mehtap Işık, co-chair of the Lawyers for Freedom Association (ÖHD), after a press release to the Van Bar Association on October 10. “Instead of investigating the criminal activities exposed by Rabia, the authorities are pursuing the journalist.”

The Disinformation ActThe law, introduced in 2022, allows the government to prosecute individuals for sharing content it deems harmful to state interests. Critics argue that the law’s loose wording has made it a tool to combat dissent and curb independent journalism.

“Rabia will not be charged with spreading misinformation; She is being punished for revealing uncomfortable truths about criminal activities and state complicity,” said JINNEWS reporter Öznur Değer. “Journalism is about uncovering facts and Rabia’s work is a clear example of this.”

Önver has maintained her commitment to uncovering the truth despite the allegations made against her. “I reported on serious human rights violations in Hakkari – information the public should know. They want to bury these reports, but as a free press we will not be silenced,” she said.

The prosecution of Rabia Önver has once again highlighted the increasing pressure on independent journalism in Turkey. The disinformation law has been used against journalists, activists and social media users who question the official narrative, particularly when their work exposes government-related corruption or human rights abuses.

Press organizations continue to show solidarity with Önver, call for the charges to be dropped and draw attention to the broader use of the disinformation law to restrict press freedom. As Turkey tightens its control over the digital and media space, cases like Rabia Önver’s demonstrate the growing difficulties faced by those reporting on the ground.