Turkish police detain dozens in raids on gay bars and homes of LGBTQ+ activists

In a series of raids across Turkey, authorities detained 47 individuals, including 26 people in Istanbul and 21 in Ankara, as part of a campaign called "My Family is Safe." The Turkish government claims the operation aims to safeguard family values, but human rights groups assert it is a tool to target the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ association Kaos GL was among the targets, with 50 activists reportedly detained.

The raids, conducted in 12 provinces, resulted in the seizure of drugs, digital equipment, smuggled alcohol, and a firearm. The Ankara chief prosecutor's office stated that authorities have accused Kaos GL of spreading obscenity online, specifically targeting children. Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated against over 160 people and multiple organizations.

Human rights groups have accused the government of using the campaign to suppress the LGBTQ+ community, describing the operation as state-led discrimination and a breach of civil liberties.