29 social media users to be probed for sharing 'provocative' posts on coronavirus in Turkey

Investigations were launched into 29 social media users over sharing "provocative" posts on coronavirus (COVID-19), hours after Health Minister Fahrettin Koca reported Turkey's first coronavirus case. According to the prosecutor's office, the 29 social media users shared posts accusing Turkish authorities of hiding the coronavirus cases is the country, as well as those that incite panic and fear in the society.

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Police to take legal action on 'misleading' social media posts about coronavirus presence in TurkeyPolice to take legal action on 'misleading' social media posts about coronavirus presence in Turkey

Investigations were launched into 29 social media users over sharing "provocative" posts on coronavirus (COVID-19), hours after Health Minister Fahrettin Koca reported Turkey's first coronavirus case.

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office said on March 11 that the posts in question aim to threaten general security and peace.

Police on March 7 said that legal action would be taken on “misleading” social media posts about the presence of coronavirus in Turkey.

“Necessary legal action was taken on the individuals who aim to incite fear and their transfer to judicial authorities will be carried out as soon as possible,” the statement read.

According to the prosecutor's office, the 29 social media users shared posts accusing Turkish authorities of hiding the coronavirus cases is the country, as well as those that incite panic and fear in the society.