TURKEY ARRESTS FOUR LEMAN MAGAZINE STAFF OVER CONTROVERSIAL CARTOON

TURKEY ARRESTS FOUR LEMAN MAGAZINE STAFF OVER CONTROVERSIAL CARTOON
Turkish police have arrested four employees of the satirical magazine Leman following a cartoon that authorities say depicts the Prophet Muhammad, sparking outrage and protests in Istanbul. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya condemned the cartoon as a “despicable provocation” and vowed legal action, while the Justice Ministry launched an investigation for “publicly insulting religious values.”

The arrests include the cartoonist, graphic designer, editor-in-chief, and managing director, all shown in videos being taken into custody. Leman denies the cartoon depicts the Prophet, saying it portrays a Muslim man named Muhammad to highlight suffering, and expressed regret for any offense caused.

Protesters outside the magazine’s office clashed with police, chanting religious slogans and damaging property, prompting a one-day ban on public gatherings in the area. The Contemporary Lawyers Association condemned the arrests as an attempt to silence dissent.

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