ISTANBOL: A cartoonist and several editors of a weekly magazine in Turkey have been arrested after publishing a blasphemous sketch allegedly depicting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Prophet Moses (AS), sparking outrage across the country.
According to Turkish media, the sketch, published in the June 26, 2025 issue, was perceived as offensive to Islamic values, with religious communities reacting strongly against the publication.
In a statement released by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, authorities confirmed that an investigation had been launched into the cartoon, which was said to “openly insult religious values.” Arrest warrants were issued for those involved in the sketch’s publication.
Following the news, angry protesters stormed a bar in central Istanbul where several staff members of the magazine were known to frequent. Clashes broke out between demonstrators and police at the scene.
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya later shared a video on the social media platform X, showing the cartoonist being taken into custody. “The individual responsible for the offensive cartoon has been arrested,” he wrote.
Media reports indicate that, in addition to the cartoonist, three other individuals connected to the magazine have been arrested, including two editors-in-chief and a managing editor.
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued a strong statement, declaring that anyone who insults the honor of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) or other prophets will be held accountable under the law.
