Turkish authorities arrested Swedish journalist Joakim Medin upon his arrival in Turkey. He landed on Thursday to cover protests against the jailing of Istanbul’s mayor. However, officials detained him immediately and sent him to prison the next day.
Charges Against Medin
The Turkish presidency confirmed his arrest on Sunday. According to their statement, he faces charges of “membership in an armed terrorist organisation” and “insulting the president.” Officials accused him of being linked to the banned Kurdish militant group PKK and spreading “anti-Turkey news.”
Government’s Justification
Turkey’s Disinformation Combat Centre defended the arrest. It stated that Medin’s detention was not related to journalism. Instead, they claimed he was involved in activities against the Turkish government.
Recent Crackdown on Journalists
Medin’s arrest happened shortly after authorities released 11 other journalists. They were taken into custody earlier in the week for covering protests. Among them was AFP photographer Yasin Akgul.
BBC Journalist Also Deported
Meanwhile, Turkish authorities detained and later deported BBC journalist Mark Lowen on Wednesday. Officials held him for 17 hours before expelling him. They claimed he posed “a threat to public order” and lacked proper accreditation.
Past Investigation Against Medin
This is not the first time Turkish authorities have targeted Medin. In 2023, prosecutors launched an investigation against him for participating in a Stockholm protest. During the demonstration, activists hung a puppet resembling President Recep Tayyip Erdogan upside down.
The protest angered Turkey, which alleged that PKK members orchestrated it. As a result, Turkey summoned Sweden’s ambassador to Ankara, demanding an explanation. Medin is now one of 15 suspects accused of organizing or promoting the event.