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 established his charity in Turkey's capital, Ankara, in 2014. Syrian refugees desperate for help initially regarded him as 'an angel'.
One affected woman, Madina, fled the Syrian civil war in 2016. In desperation, she approached Mr. Karagoz's organization, the Hope Charity Store, when her child fell critically ill and her husband left her.
Madina described a horrifying incident where Mr. Karagoz lured her behind a curtain claiming she needed to retrieve supplies, then attempted to assault her. Scared of repercussions, she chose not to report him to the police.
Another woman, Nada, recalled her experience seeking aid for her family, where Karagoz demanded sexual favors in exchange for essential supplies. Like Madina, she felt unable to speak out due to stigma and fear of retaliation.
Batoul, a single mother now living in Germany, also reported an incident of sexual assault involving Mr. Karagoz. She expressed relief over his arrest, highlighting the need for justice for victims of sexual exploitation.
Despite his arrest, Karagoz insists the allegations are false, claiming his organization has helped over 37,000 people and that he has health conditions preventing sexual activity.
The case underscores the need for protective measures for vulnerable populations seeking help, especially in crisis situations.
