Probe launched into police chief for threatening journalists during protest
An investigation has been launched into Istanbul Security Branch Manager Hanifi Zengin, who is known for his threats and abusive behaviors against journalists, women and LGBT people during protests.
Duvar English
Turkey’s General Directorate of Security (EGM) has launched an investigation into Istanbul Security Branch Manager Hanifi Zengin over his threats to journalists during a protest.
Zengin on July 7 threatened Artı TV reporter Meral Danyıldız and cameraperson Bilal Meyveci during healthcare workers’ protest.
“Hanifi Zengin just walked over to me. He threatened my cameraman, Bilal Meyveci, by saying 'If you don't record me stepping on your feet, we will meet with you',” Danyıldız reported on July 7.
Following the incident, the Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA) filed criminal complaints against Hanifi Zengin over the charges of "abuse of duty", "threat", "violation of freedom of work and employment".
After the evaluation of the criminal complaint, the lawyers of Bilal Meyveci were informed that an investigation was launched by the EGM against police chief Zengin, according to reporting by the MLSA on Aug. 28.
"The opening of an investigation against Hanifi Zengin, who threatens journalists, is just one step, we want to see results," Reporters Without Borders (RSF) representative Erol Önderoğlu said.
The moments of police chief Zengin sexually harassing women during the Pride march was also circulated through social media. He also ordered AFP photojournalist Bülent Kılıç to be detained during the same march.