Turkish authorities have arrested dozens of singers, actors and influencers on charges of drug use and facilitating drug trafficking in Turkey. Among those detained was Hadise, who represented the country at Eurovision, actress Berak Tuzunatac, singer Irem Derici, and actor Kubilay Aka.
Turkey: dozens of arrests in entertainment industry over drug case, including Hadise
Turkish authorities questioned and took blood samples from 19 people during the investigation. According to reports from Hurriyet, after giving their statements, the celebrities were taken to the forensic institute for blood, urine and hair samples, then to a hospital for medical examination. They subsequently returned to Istanbul’s Gendarmerie Headquarters, and once all necessary procedures were completed, they were released.
Hadise: I have no connection to drugs
According to Turkish media, Hadise stated: “I was upset because I knew I was absolutely clean on this matter. It really hurt me.” She emphasized: “This plague called drugs is nowhere near me. Those who know me know very well that I wouldn’t even stay in an environment where these topics are discussed. It is a huge mistake to even connect my name with drugs. I have built a career over 14 years. Am I stupid enough to risk this career with drug addiction?” The famous singer performed at her scheduled concert in Ankara the same evening after her release.
Shock in Turkish entertainment industry
The detention of these celebrities shocked Turkey’s entertainment industry, according to the BBC. This move comes amid growing concerns in the country about freedom of speech. Opponents of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan describe this as part of a broader crackdown against artists, media outlets and opposition figures in recent months.
In September, an investigation was launched against musician Mabel Matiz for alleged “obscenity” in one of his songs. He now faces up to three years in prison. The same month, prosecutors said they would seek a one-year prison sentence for popular female band Manifest for “indecent behavior.” Additionally, last week, prominent journalist Fatih Altayli was put on trial, accused of making “threatening” statements against Erdogan, which he denies. The journalist now faces at least five years in prison.
