A Turkish social media personality will remain in jail while facing charges related to a video posted online, authorities announced Friday, March 13, 2026. The case underscores growing scrutiny of online content and potential incitement to hatred.
Murat Övüç appeared via video conference at a hearing before the Küçükçekmece 5th Criminal Court of First Instance, where the court ruled to continue his pre-trial detention. Övüç is accused of inciting animosity and hostility through a video he shared on social media.
During the hearing, Övüç defended his actions, stating he created the video, which depicts him wearing a headscarf, to please his female followers who wear head coverings and intended it as a humorous gesture. He claimed there was no malicious intent and apologized if the video was misinterpreted. Övüç explained that the video was originally posted in February 2024 to an Instagram account that was later shut down due to the nature of his stage costumes, and that he now shares content featuring more formal attire.
Övüç requested his release and acquittal. But, the prosecutor at the hearing argued for his continued detention. The court agreed with the prosecution and postponed the trial to allow for further investigation.
According to an indictment prepared by the Küçükçekmece Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation began after cybercrime units of the Istanbul Security Directorate identified the video on a social media account. The indictment details that Övüç was wearing a black and red headscarf in the video and made a gesture towards a ring on his finger while a Turkish folk song played in the background.
Prosecutors allege that Övüç mocked the headscarf and incited public animosity towards those who wear them. He faces a potential prison sentence of one to three years if convicted of “publicly inciting hatred and animosity.”
