Authorities in Turkey have launched an investigation into a foreign tourist who was filmed pole dancing on a flagpole bearing the country’s national flag in the central province of Nevşehir, officials said on Thursday.
The Nevşehir Governor’s Office said in a written statement that security units began an immediate review after images of the incident in the Cappadocia region were shared on news sites and social media.
Turkish authorities opened an investigation after a foreign tourist pole danced on a flagpole. pic.twitter.com/SxP4hdntV5
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The office said the Nevşehir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office opened a criminal investigation under Articles 300 and 301 of the Turkish Penal Code, which criminalize insulting state symbols and degrading the Turkish nation or its institutions.
“We regard this deplorable incident as an act of disrespect toward the national and spiritual values of our nation. The matter is being followed with great sensitivity and diligence by our office,” the governor’s statement read.
Article 300 of the penal code calls for sentences of one to three years for insulting the Turkish flag, while Article 301 sets penalties of six months to two years for insulting the Turkish nation or state institutions. Prosecutions under Article 301 require the approval of the Justice Ministry.