Investigation Launched Against Journalist Reporting Tree Cutting in Ezidi Village
Authorities in Turkey have opened an investigation into journalist Zeynep Durgut after she reported allegations of tree cutting in Kiwex, an Ezidi village located in the Hezex (Ä°dil) district of Åžirnex province.
Durgut, a reporter for the Mesopotamia Agency, published a report in June 2025 describing claims from local residents that trees had been cut on village land as part of preparations for the construction of a police station near the entrance of Kiwex. The report drew attention to concerns raised by villagers about environmental damage and the impact of the planned project on their land.
The investigation was reportedly initiated following a complaint submitted by the Midyat district branch of the political party HÜDA-PAR to the Midyat Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office.
As part of the investigation, Durgut appeared at the 2 Nisan Police Station in van, where she gave a statement accompanied by her lawyer. During questioning, she confirmed that she authored the report and stated that her work was part of her professional duty to inform the public.
Her lawyer, Veysi Atay, argued that the article should be viewed within the framework of press freedom and freedom of expression. He also stated that, under Turkish law, criminal responsibility requires the presence of a clear and immediate threat, which he said does not apply in this case.
After completing the statement procedures, Durgut left the police station. The investigation remains ongoing.
The case has raised renewed concerns among observers about pressures facing journalists reporting on sensitive local issues, particularly those affecting minority areas such as Ezidi villages.
