Turkish rapper Lvbel C5, whose real name is Süleyman Burak Bodur, was jailed Tuesday on charges of promoting drug use in his songs, marking the latest in a series of prosecutions targeting musicians in Turkey.
Bodur was taken into custody after being summoned by police in the Gebze district of Kocaeli province. He was later transported to the courthouse, where the Gebze Criminal Court of Peace ordered his pretrial detention under Article 190 of the Turkish Penal Code, which criminalizes “encouraging drug use.”
Authorities have not identified specific lyrics or songs cited in the case, but Turkish media reported that the charges relate directly to his musical content.
Lvbel C5 is part of a new generation of Turkish rappers who have gained popularity with younger audiences through online platforms. His music often includes references to street life, personal struggles and themes common in global hip-hop.
The case adds to growing concerns about freedom of expression in Turkey, where several musicians have faced legal action in recent years over their lyrics, public statements or performances. Rapper Ezhel was arrested on similar charges in 2018 but was acquitted after a brief trial.
Rights groups say the use of criminal laws against artists contributes to a broader pattern of censorship and limits cultural expression.