A Turkish charity owner at the centre of sexual abuse allegations, brought to light by a BBC investigation, has been arrested. BBC News Turkish revealed accusations that Sadettin Karagoz sexually exploited vulnerable women, promising them aid in return for sex. He denies all the allegations.
Mr. Karagoz set up his charity in Turkey's capital, Ankara, in 2014. Syrian refugees desperate for help described him as initially seeming like an angel. One of the refugees, Madina, shared her experience of seeking help for her critically ill child and how Mr. Karagoz changed when she approached him for assistance, leading to an aggressive and unwanted sexual advance.
Madina's experience was not isolated. Other women, including Nada and Batoul, also came forward recounting instances where Mr. Karagoz had tried to sexually exploit them, often under the guise of providing aid. Despite past accusations against him, many women felt too afraid to report his actions due to fear of repercussions.
Following the BBC's investigation, which prompted further testimonies from two additional women, Mr. Karagoz has been charged and is currently in jail awaiting trial. He claims innocence, attributing the allegations to past conflicts with the women. In contrast, the women assert they are speaking out not just for themselves but to empower others who faced similar situations and felt silenced. This unfolding case highlights the urgent need for safeguarding practices within charities serving vulnerable communities.
Mr. Karagoz set up his charity in Turkey's capital, Ankara, in 2014. Syrian refugees desperate for help described him as initially seeming like an angel. One of the refugees, Madina, shared her experience of seeking help for her critically ill child and how Mr. Karagoz changed when she approached him for assistance, leading to an aggressive and unwanted sexual advance.
Madina's experience was not isolated. Other women, including Nada and Batoul, also came forward recounting instances where Mr. Karagoz had tried to sexually exploit them, often under the guise of providing aid. Despite past accusations against him, many women felt too afraid to report his actions due to fear of repercussions.
Following the BBC's investigation, which prompted further testimonies from two additional women, Mr. Karagoz has been charged and is currently in jail awaiting trial. He claims innocence, attributing the allegations to past conflicts with the women. In contrast, the women assert they are speaking out not just for themselves but to empower others who faced similar situations and felt silenced. This unfolding case highlights the urgent need for safeguarding practices within charities serving vulnerable communities.
