Several Show Business Stars Arrested in Turkey in Drug Case 0 207

As part of an operation against the promotion and smuggling of drugs, several popular artists have been arrested in Turkey. This was reported by the local television channel Halk TV.

Among those arrested in the operation are singers Hadise, Simge Sağın, bloggers Dilan Polat, Engin Polat, actress Demet Evgar, and actor Kubilay Aka.

The operation is part of an investigation initiated by the Istanbul Prosecutor's Office regarding 'the use of drugs or stimulants.' By order of the investigators, blood samples will be taken from the detainees for examination.

It is also specified that singer İrem Derici was arrested at her home in the Şişli district on charges of promoting drug use. Her lawyer Ayşegül Mermer stated that the defense is cooperating with the investigation: "We arrived at the police station to give testimony. We have not yet been provided with official information regarding the substance of the case. The public will be informed as the situation clarifies."

Unlike some EU countries, Turkey has a rather strict drug policy, where even illegal possession of drugs, including cannabis/marijuana, is considered a criminal offense. In Turkey, almost all drugs are considered illegal, and there is no legislation allowing the medical use of any non-pharmaceutical substances. The main legislation and provisions regarding illegal drugs are outlined in the Turkish Penal Code No. 5237 (TPC), and although the law distinguishes between illegal drug trafficking (Article 188), permission for drug sales (Article 190), and possession of drugs for personal use (Article 191), all three are considered crimes and punishable offenses.

According to paragraph 1 of Article 191, any person who acquires, consumes, or possesses illegal drugs for personal use is punishable by imprisonment for a term of 2 to 5 years. It is important to note that this provision also applies to the possession of cannabis/marijuana or other similar plant-based drugs.

One of the most common arguments against such harsh penalties, especially from foreigners, is that foreigners visiting Turkey are unaware that their actions constitute crimes, particularly regarding drug possession, and therefore should be exempt from these provisions. Although this punishment seems severe, especially compared to the provisions applicable in Europe and the United States, it is nonetheless an applicable law in Turkey, and the claim that the offender was unaware of the law and thus had no intention of committing a crime is not an adequate defense in such a situation.