Several prominent Turkish celebrities were called in for questioning and blood tests on Wednesday as part of an ongoing investigation into drug use, as confirmed by officials in Istanbul.
Investigation details and celebrity involvement
The inquiry, spearheaded by Istanbul’s chief prosecutor, targets individuals suspected of “using narcotic or stimulant substances.” A total of 19 public figures have been summoned, including well-known singers, actors, television personalities, and social media influencers.
According to local media sources, those who appeared for the investigation are not expected to face immediate arrests or charges. They are likely to be released after completing the required blood tests and providing statements to the authorities.
Context and broader implications
Under Turkish law, individuals found using drugs may be mandated to undergo treatment, rehabilitation, or receive probation instead of facing prison time for personal use. This investigation appears to align with a wider governmental crackdown on artists and dissenting voices amid President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s administration.
“The investigation coincides with a broader crackdown on artists and opposition voices under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.”
Notably, Turkish pop singer Mabel Matiz currently faces potential imprisonment of up to three years due to allegations of “obscenity” in one of his song’s lyrics, which prosecutors argue violate public morality laws. Additionally, the girl-band Manifest is reportedly facing legal scrutiny for purported “indecent acts” during a recent performance.
In recent years, Turkey has intensified its efforts to combat drug use and trafficking. A significant operation in April led to the detention of 525 suspected drug dealers in Ankara, an event described by the government as the “biggest narcotics operation” in the nation’s history.