A prominent charity leader in Turkey, Sadettin Karagoz, has been arrested following a BBC News Turkish investigation that uncovered allegations of sexual exploitation. Refugees have come forward with accounts of being promised aid in exchange for sexual favors, with Mr. Karagoz vehemently denying all claims.
Established in Ankara in 2014, the charity, known as the Hope Charity Store, was initially seen as a beacon of hope for Syrian refugees struggling in Turkey. However, the investigation reveals a darker side, with multiple women recounting experiences of alleged abuse by Mr. Karagoz.
One refugee, identified as Madina, shared her story of desperation after fleeing the Syrian civil war. Left alone to care for her three children, she sought assistance from Mr. Karagoz’s organization. She described an incident where she was allegedly lured behind a curtain in the office and subjected to unwanted advances. “He grabbed me,” she recounted, “He started kissing me… I told him to get away from me. If I hadn’t yelled, he would have tried to rape me.” Fearing repercussions, Madina did not report the incident to the police.
Another refugee, Nada, also shared her distressing experiences, stating that Mr. Karagoz allegedly demanded sexual favors in exchange for essential supplies like nappies for her son. She recounted an incident where he allegedly tried to touch her inappropriately and another where he forced her to touch him. Nada expressed fear of stigma and blame, which prevented her from speaking out earlier.
A third woman, Batoul, who has since moved to Germany, described a similar encounter where Mr. Karagoz allegedly made unwanted advances. She stated, “I left the aid and walked out of the shop.” These testimonies are not isolated; the BBC investigation reportedly uncovered similar allegations from three other women and testimony from seven other individuals, including former employees, detailing alleged abuse between 2016 and 2024.
While previous accusations did not lead to prosecution due to insufficient evidence and victims’ reluctance to formally complain, the recent revelations have prompted further action. It is understood that two more women have come forward following the BBC’s report, leading to Mr. Karagoz’s arrest and pending trial. Batoul expressed her happiness at his arrest, hoping it would give strength and courage to all women facing exploitation.
Mr. Karagoz, a retired bank worker, had previously denied the allegations, arguing that the charity’s public and CCTV-monitored office space made such abuse impossible. He also cited a medical condition as a reason he could not engage in sexual activity, though a urology professor disputed this claim’s impact on sexual life. He suggested that past accusations were motivated by personal grievances.
The women who spoke out emphasized their desire for justice and to prevent others from suffering in silence. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing fight against sexual exploitation and abuse, particularly among vulnerable populations seeking aid.
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