Turkey to deport 7 Syrians over 'provocative' banana videos

Turkey's Directorate General of Migration Management said on Oct. 27 that seven Syrians, who shared "provocative" videos of themselves eating bananas in reference to a street interview where a citizen said they couldn't afford the fruit, will be deported.

Thursday October 28 2021 10:35 am

Duvar English

Turkey's Directorate General of Migration said on Oct. 27 that they would deport seven Syrians who shared "provocative" videos of themselves eating bananas in reference to a street interview where a citizen was heard comparing the financial wellbeing of Syrians with Turks.

"I can't afford bananas, but Syrians buy them in kilograms," the Turkish national was heard saying in the interview.

The comparison stems mostly from the social media rumors and speeches of nationalist politicians that claim Syrians live comfortably on government aid whereas Turkish nationals suffer from the economic crisis and unemployment.

Following the street interview, Syrians started sharing videos of themselves eating bananas on TikTok, while also using the voice recording of the interview.

Upon backlash on social media, The Directorate General of Migration Management deemed the videos "provocative" and announced that legal action was taken.

"Seven foreign nationals were detained in relation to the provocative videos," the directorate said in an official statement on Oct. 27, adding that those detained will be deported after the necessary procedures are completed.

The directorate will continue to inspect the posts, the statement added.