Turkey Tightens School Security Nationwide After Deadly Shootings, Social Media Crackdown

Turkey Tightens School Security Nationwide After Deadly Shootings, Social Media Crackdown
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Authorities in Turkey have introduced sweeping security measures across schools in all 81 provinces following a series of deadly shootings that left several students dead and injured, triggering widespread public concern over safety in educational institutions.

The incidents, reported in recent days in southeastern regions and the city of Kahramanmaraş, have significantly heightened the country’s security climate. According to media reports, including BBC, one attack involved a 14-year-old assailant who opened fire inside a classroom before later dying.

Initial investigations cited by Anadolu Agency suggest that some of the attacks may have been premeditated, with digital evidence indicating possible influence from violent online content.

In response, Turkish police announced the arrest of at least 162 individuals accused of promoting violence or disrupting public order through social media posts. Authorities also restricted or blocked more than 1,100 social media accounts as part of efforts to control online activity following the attacks.

The Interior Ministry has simultaneously launched a nationwide security plan, deploying at least two police officers outside every school and increasing patrols around educational facilities. In major cities such as Ankara and Istanbul, identity checks and vehicle inspections near schools have also been intensified.