Journalist Alican Uludağ Detained in Ankara

Investigation Details and Charges Journalist Alican Uludağ was detained in Ankara as part of an investigation conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.
The investigation reportedly centers on allegations of "insulting the President" and "publicly spreading misleading information" regarding his social media activity.
Legal Process and Transfer Decision The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office announced that instructions were issued to have the suspect present for legal proceedings on February 20, 2026.
Following the completion of procedures in Ankara, Uludağ is expected to be transferred to Istanbul to provide his statement as the investigation continues.
Reactions from Professional Organizations The detention has drawn significant criticism from media professional organizations and unions.
The Contemporary Journalists Association (ÇGD), the Journalists' Union of Turkey (TGS), the Association of Journalists, and DISK Basın-İş issued statements emphasizing that journalism is not a crime.
The organizations argued that such interventions target freedom of expression and the public's right to information, calling for Uludağ's immediate release.
The TGS highlighted Uludağ's experience as a journalist who closely follows the judiciary, criticizing the treatment of him as a criminal before any trial has taken place.
Political Criticism Political figures also reacted to the detention order.
CHP Group Deputy Chairman Ali Mahir Başarır stated that the increase in arbitrary accusations against the press is incompatible with the principles of the rule of law.
Başarır criticized the process from the perspective of democratic values and advocated for an end to pressure on the media.