Turkish authorities arrested 162 people in raids against LGBT organizations

Turkish authorities have arrested 162 people in nationwide raids against LGBT organizations, the Anadolu Agency reported Sunday, citing the prosecutor’s office. The operations took place at 38 locations, including homes, offices and organization headquarters in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Antalya.

The investigations concern allegations including establishing an organization to commit crimes, prostitution, obscenity and drug possession. Prosecutors claim to have identified evidence that the organizations’ activities allegedly influenced minors regarding sexual orientation and gender identity.

The operation was named “My Family Is Safe,” and authorities justified it on the grounds of protecting children, the family and “shared moral values.” Justice Minister Akin Gürlek said that significant financial transfers originating from public institutions abroad are also being investigated.

The Kaos GL organization announced that police searched its headquarters and arrested members of its leadership. Several social media accounts belonging to organizations were also blocked. The raids come amid growing pressure on Turkey’s LGBT community, where Istanbul’s Pride march has been banned since 2015. Authorities announced that they are also trying to identify other people.