Altun: Unconfirmed and false information substantially harmed rescue efforts

In a post on his social media account, Altun noted that many local and foreign experts drew attention to the magnitude and unprecedented nature of the disaster Türkiye has experienced.

Altun stated that satellite images revealing how the earthquakes, which were described as the “disaster of the century” and affected 10 provinces in the Mediterranean, South Eastern, and Eastern Anatolia regions, moved the earth, revealed the extent of the disaster, and continued as follows:

“However, unfortunately, another danger that threatens human life accompanies the process. We have witnessed first-hand how disinformation jeopardizes even lives during natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other extraordinary circumstances. Unconfirmed and false information circulating on social media platforms and various digital applications substantially harmed rescue efforts during the recent earthquake. Both the earthquake victims and those working selflessly in the field suffered greatly as a result of this.

For instance, we faced irreversible outcomes last night when citizens faced a new trauma while trying to evacuate the city due to the lie that 'the dam in Hatay collapsed and the city will be flooded', resulting in the suspension of search and rescue operations. Undoubtedly, the judiciary also took action against the lethal disinformation that impeded search and rescue operations. Unfortunately, misleading information on the fundamental needs of earthquake victims, such as shelter and medicine, was the focus of the disinformation that jeopardizes human life.”

“We must be vigilant against accounts and individuals that spread disinformation”

Noting that deliberate false warnings on social media also disrupt the search and rescue operations, Altun said: “Throughout this process, we have clearly observed how the algorithms of social media platforms that amplify disinformation and push accurate information to the background function. Therefore, we must all be vigilant against accounts and individuals that spread disinformation. These days, we recognize once more the significance of being one and united. Once again, I wish Allah's mercy upon our citizens who passed away and a speedy recovery to the injured. I extend my get-well wishes to our country and nation.” (ILKHA)