Turkish opposition journalists Murat Agirel and Timur Soykan detained over threats, blackmail allegations

Pro-opposition journalists Murat Agirel and Timur Soykan have been detained in Istanbul as part of an ongoing investigation led by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, according to an official statement released on Tuesday.

The detentions are linked to allegations of threat and blackmail, reportedly made by suspects involved in an ongoing criminal case related to violations of the Law on the Arrangement of Betting and Games of Chance in Football and Other Sports Competitions, as well as money laundering of assets derived from criminal activity.

Flash Haber TV allegations at the center of dispute

The complaint stems from an alleged dispute regarding the transfer and purchase of Flash Haber TV, a media outlet.

The suspects involved in the broader investigation claim that Murat Agirel and Timur Soykan attempted to threaten and blackmail them during the negotiations of the television channel.

As a result, formal complaints were filed against both journalists, leading to their detention.

Search and seizure actions underway

Authorities confirmed that search and seizure operations related to the investigation are ongoing.

Following routine medical examinations, both suspects were transferred to the Vatan headquarters of the Istanbul Police Department. No additional statements have been made regarding pending legal proceedings as of yet.