Russian tourists in Istanbul may face jail for kissing in a mosque

A Russian couple has been arrested and faces imprisonment for kissing inside a mosque in Turkey.

The couple, who were on vacation in Turkey, decided to visit the Çamlıca Mosque in Istanbul. While in the inner courtyard, they hugged and kissed, provoking strong outrage from local residents.

Police arrested the tourists, who are now awaiting trial. 

The charge is serious: insulting “religious values.” Under Turkish law, this offense carries a prison sentence of 6 months to 1 year.

A Russian couple has been arrested and faces imprisonment for kissing inside a mosque in Turkey.

The couple, who were on vacation in Turkey, visited the Çamlıca Mosque in Istanbul. While in the inner courtyard, they hugged and kissed, provoking strong outrage from the locals. pic.twitter.com/Lvxi9cRVHN

— Olomo TIMES (@Olomotimes) September 7, 2025