On the night of July 11, a serious incident occurred at the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Istanbul. A 42-year-old man, identified as M.G., entered the mosque and intentionally set a Bible on fire inside the prayer area. The fire slightly damaged the historic carpet near the Mahmud II Library before it was quickly put out.

The Istanbul Police Department reported that the act happened around 11:50 p.m. M.G. placed the book on the mosque floor, lit it, and left the scene in the same vehicle he had arrived in. Security officers responded immediately and extinguished the flames before they could spread.

Surveillance cameras captured the entire act, including how the suspect started the fire. Police were able to trace the vehicle registration and arrested M.G. shortly after. He was brought in for questioning and later appeared in court.

On July 13, a judge ordered his official arrest, stating there was a risk he might flee. The court also declared that the man's actions amounted to damaging a place of worship. This is a serious crime under Turkish law.

Authorities also revealed that M.G. has a criminal record that includes past offenses such as intentional injury, threats, verbal abuse, and stealing vehicles. During questioning, he asked to be given a psychiatric check-up, which is now under medical review.

Thankfully, no one was injured, and the mosque reopened soon after. Staff confirmed that the damage was minor, and worshipers and tourists can still visit the Hagia Sophia as usual.

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