I am deeply alarmed by reports that Turkish authorities raided @halktvcomtrr , halted its live broadcasts and placed the broadcaster under a state-appointed trustee. Coming only days after our joint statement as UN experts raising serious concerns about increasing restrictions on freedom of expression and civil society in Türkiye, these developments reinforce an already troubling pattern. The seizure of control over an independent media outlet is an extraordinary interference with freedom of expression and media pluralism. A criminal investigation cannot become a vehicle for silencing a newsroom, disrupting its editorial work or depriving the public of access to independent information. I urge the Turkish authorities to safeguard Halk TV’s editorial independence, ensure that any measures comply strictly with international human rights law, and protect the ability of journalists and media outlets to operate freely, independently and without intimidation. @MFATurkiye