A Turkish charity owner at the center of sexual abuse allegations revealed by a recent BBC investigation has been arrested. Sadettin Karagoz faces accusations of exploiting vulnerable women by offering aid in exchange for sexual favors.
Karagoz established his charity, Hope Charity Store, in Ankara in 2014. Many women, including one named Madina, who fled the Syrian civil war, initially viewed him as a savior. However, their experiences soon turned traumatic when Karagoz allegedly assaulted them while promising assistance. Madina described a harrowing encounter where Karagoz attempted to rape her, leaving her terrified.
Despite his arrest, Karagoz denies all allegations, asserting that multiple eyewitnesses would have come forward if his actions were true. He claims that his charity has assisted over 37,000 people, although testimonies from several women suggest a pattern of abuse perpetrated by him.
A second victim, Nada, shared an incident where Karagoz coerced her into a secluded area under the pretense of providing aid, during which he attempted to sexually assault her. Another woman, Batoul, revealed a similar experience, stating Karagoz groped her while she was attempting to receive assistance.
Since the investigation, authorities have seen a surge in reports against Karagoz, prompting his arrest. Women like Batoul expressed hope that this action would motivate other victims of sexual abuse to come forward. I am truly happy he has been arrested, for myself and for all the women who have suffered in silence and couldn't speak out because of fear, she shared, calling for more courage among victims.
The situation raises critical conversations around power dynamics, vulnerability, and the urgent need for protective measures for those seeking aid, especially in crises. As the legal proceedings unfold, many survivors are looking toward justice and a reclaiming of their strength in the face of exploitation.
