Turkish Court Jails 16 in Izmir After Anti-LGBTQ Raids

On September 13, 2026, dozens of individuals were arrested during raids targeting LGBTQ+ groups in Izmir, Turkey. The operations, conducted by security forces, led to the detention of over 50 people, with 16 subsequently sentenced by a Turkish court. The court's ruling, announced on September 14, imposed prison terms on the 16, citing violations of public morality and national security. The raids followed a pattern of increased state surveillance and harassment of LGBTQ+ individuals in Turkey. While the Bangkok Post reported the arrest of dozens, Reuters, Nikkei Asia, and the Straits Times confirmed the specific number of 16 individuals sentenced. The exact number of detainees and the full scope of the operation remain underreported, with some sources noting discrepancies in the details provided by authorities. The Turkish government has not issued a detailed statement on the raids, but the sentencing of 16 individuals underscores the ongoing persecution of LGBTQ+ communities in the country. The international community has condemned the actions as part of a broader campaign of repression.