Turkish Police Detain 162 Individuals Over School Shooting Posts

In a recent crackdown, Turkish law enforcement officials have detained 162 individuals for their online activities regarding two significant school shootings that occurred this week. Justice Minister Akın Gürlek stated that the suspects are accused of sharing videos of the incidents, along with content that may incite fear and glorify criminal acts.

The first shooting took place at a high school in south-eastern Turkey on Tuesday, resulting in at least 16 injuries. Just a day later, a second shooting in the city of Kahramanmaras led to the deaths of nine individuals, including eight students and a teacher. Reports indicate that 13 more people were injured in the Kahramanmaras attack, with six of them in critical condition.

Funerals for the victims have been held, drawing crowds near the main mosque in Kahramanmaras. One of the students who lost their life has been identified as 10-year-old Zeynep. Her uncle, Mahmut, shared poignant words about her character, saying, "Now she is an angel; she flew away." Another bereaved family member, the aunt of a victim named Shura, expressed her devastation, stating that she learned of her niece's passing when her name was mentioned in the news.

The shooting at Ayser Calik Secondary School resulted in a wounded attacker, a 14-year-old, who was also killed during the incident. Turkish authorities have indicated that the suspect had meticulously planned the attack. In a concerning discover, a document found on the suspect's computer, dated April 11, 2026, suggested an intention to carry out a larger operation soon.

Furthermore, the suspect reportedly referenced American mass shooter Elliot Rodger in a photo on his WhatsApp profile. Rodger gained notoriety after killing six individuals in California in 2014. Turkish media stated that the attacker, believed to be a student, was armed with five firearms and seven ammunition magazines, entering the school with the intention to cause significant harm.

On the day of the first shooting, which occurred at the Ahmet Koyuncu Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School in Siverek district, the former student shot indiscriminately with a shotgun before taking his own life. Local governor Hasan Şildak confirmed these details about the chaotic scene.

In light of the events, Justice Minister Gürlek disclosed that 95 of those detained are charged with disseminating footage from the attack, despite an imposed broadcast ban, along with engaging in behaviour that could heighten public anxiety. Additionally, they face accusations of praising criminal acts and spreading false narratives to undermine official statements. In total, restrictions have been imposed on 1,104 social media accounts due to their content.

Authorities have also taken action against 67 individuals for making posts suggesting that similar attacks would occur at other schools, indicating a broader concern over safety in educational institutions. As the situation continues to evolve, more than just questions of accountability surface, pressing the need for enhanced protective measures in Turkish schools amid rising fears over safety and gun violence.