Dicle Fırat Journalists Association (DFG) announced that Medya Haber TV presenter Heval Arslan was detained by the police in Ninove, Belgium without a court order. Arslan’s belongings were confiscated, he was subjected to strip search and put in a cell. DFG emphasized that this practice is unlawful and should be immediately ended and Arslan should be released. Arslan has reportedly applied for asylum in Belgium, but could be extradited to France, in which case he risks being sent back to Turkey. The Kurdish Women’s Association RO-JIN also reacted to the detention and defended Arslan’s freedom. Arslan, who has worked for Kurdish media since 2003, is currently being held at the deportation center in Bruges.
September 25, 2025
Bianet