Call for Release of Journalist Ahmet Polad: Medical Urgency Highlighted
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) urgently demands that Turkish authorities release journalist Ahmet Polad, a Kurdish-Turkish reporter recently transferred to Turkey from Syria after enduring nearly eight months of enforced disappearance. Reports indicate that Polad is currently suffering from severe health issues, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Details of Polad’s Detention
Ahmet Polad, born Mehmet Nizam Aslan, was arrested by Turkish authorities shortly after being returned to Turkey on September 8. His lawyer, Özlem Gümüştaş, has expressed grave concern for his well-being, noting that he requires emergency medical care. Polad’s troubles began on January 18, 2026, when he and German journalist Eva Maria Michelmann were detained while covering events in Raqqa, Syria, during military activities between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces. Initially, Turkish authorities denied any knowledge of Polad’s detention, but they later admitted to holding him.
Both journalists were affiliated with the Etkin News Agency (ETHA) and Özgür TV, which have a strong presence across Europe. While Michelmann was released on June 19, the fate of Polad remained unknown for several months until his recent transfer to Turkey.
Allegations of Torture and Abuse
Gümüştaş has revealed alarming details about the conditions Polad endured while in custody in Syria. According to her statements, he experienced regular beatings, starvation, and confinement in a space so small he could not stand upright. It is believed that Polad was held captive in Aleppo before being moved to Idlib, where he handed over to Turkish intelligence operatives.
Gümüştaş reported that Polad had no access to legal representation during his captivity and was never presented before a Syrian court. His transfer to Turkey involved being blindfolded and handcuffed, highlighting the lack of care for his dignity and rights.
Immediate Medical Needs
Following his arrival in Istanbul, Polad reportedly underwent a brief medical examination but was arrested shortly thereafter, despite the urgent need for further treatment. His lawyer stated that he is suffering from malnutrition, lice infestation, and the physical ramifications of the beatings. Gümüştaş is in the process of filing an appeal against the court’s arrest order and has prioritized securing permission for a comprehensive hospital visit.
The CPJ Chief Programs Officer, Carlos Martínez de la Serna, emphasized the grave nature of Polad’s situation, asserting that he deserves to be in a hospital rather than a prison cell. “Turkey must immediately release Polad to allow him to receive the medical treatment he needs, and Syrian authorities must be held accountable for his treatment during the past months,” he stated.
Overall, both Turkish and Syrian authorities are urged to provide clarity regarding Polad’s case and ensure that his basic human rights are protected. The CPJ has reached out for comments but has yet to receive responses from either the Turkish Justice Ministry or Syrian officials. The call for action emphasizes the pressing need for justice and care for journalists at risk around the world.