In Northern Cyprus, journalist Pınar Barut and the Özgür Gazete newspaper, where she serves as editor-in-chief, were targeted with severe threat messages sent via SIM cards linked to the United States. The messages included statements such as “We will burn your newspaper,” “A million dollars for your head,” “Your blood is halal to us,” and “Bullets will do the talking.” The newspaper stated that the messages were sent under the nickname “Dodo” of Doğukan Çep, the instigator of the Sinan Ateş murder. It was noted that security forces were unable to track the messages. Basın-Sen and KTGB emphasized that condemnation alone was insufficient, stating that the increasing threats against journalists were turning the country into a “paradise for trigger-happy individuals,” and called on authorities to take immediate action. Press organizations will make a statement tomorrow in front of the Police General Directorate.
November 24, 2025
Bianet