Charity Leader Arrested Amid Sexual Exploitation Allegations Stun Refugee Community

Tue Oct 28 2025 13:14:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Sadettin Karagoz, a Turkish charity owner, has been arrested following allegations of sexually exploiting women seeking aid. Survivors share their harrowing experiences, shedding light on the abuse faced by vulnerable refugees.

The arrest of Sadettin Karagoz, a charity head in Turkey, has sent shockwaves through the refugee community after multiple women accused him of sexual exploitation in exchange for aid. Survivors and witnesses recount disturbing experiences, highlighting the systemic issues of sexual violence against vulnerable populations, particularly amongst Syrian refugees. Despite Karagoz's denials, the allegations have opened up discussions on the urgency of protecting vulnerable groups from exploitation.

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. Many Syrian refugees desperate for help initially viewed him as 'an angel.' One of them, Madina, fled the Syrian civil war in 2016 and sought aid from his organization.

Madina, a pseudonym to protect her identity, describes her initial faith in Karagoz quickly turning to fear. During a visit to collect aid, he allegedly assaulted her behind a curtain, attempting to force himself on her. Terrified, she escaped but later faced intimidation, fearing deportation back to Syria.

Another Syrian refugee, Nada, shared her own harrowing encounter, stating that Karagoz demanded sexual favors in exchange for essential supplies. She, too, felt overwhelmed and isolated, ultimately believing she had no one to turn to for help.

The third survivor, Batoul, recounted experiences of harassment, ultimately fleeing Ankara for safety in Germany. 'I am truly happy' she remarked upon hearing of his arrest, indicating that it gave hope to many women who have suffered in silence.

Karagoz maintains he is innocent and claims that the allegations against him stemmed from his charity's operation within a small, monitored space. He asserts that his organization has provided substantial aid to tens of thousands of refugees.

These testimonies are echoed by reports from other individuals, including former employees of his charity, and have ignited a broader conversation about the pervasive issue of sexual violence against vulnerable populations. As survivors find the strength to come forward, this case exemplifies the urgent need to protect those most at risk.