Over 1,000 people including journalists were detained on Monday following the massive protest that erupted after imprisonment of the Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.
Since Imamoglu's detention on Wednesday, hundreds took to the streets protesting against the move. It is considered the largest wave of street demonstrations in Turkey in more than a decade.
VIDEO: Police use pepper spray as crowds gather to protest Istanbul mayor arrest.
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 24, 2025
Police used pepper spray against a large crowd gathered near Istanbul city hall, as the Turkish city saw its fifth night of protests against the arrest of its mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. President… pic.twitter.com/JsBW19Bv8u
At least eight reporters and photojournalists were detained by the police, said the media workers' union Disk-Basin-Is. According to the union, the government's crackdown amid escalating protests was an attack on press freedoms and people's right to learn the truth.
Istanbul’s Sarachane Park this evening - peaceful student protest . Many are now ready to boycott university classes - after the arrest of @imamoglu_int and the revoking of his degree. #istanbul #turkiye pic.twitter.com/TdeHGM6uz2
— emily m (@maitlis) March 23, 2025
A total of 1,133 people have been detained since March 19. Police claimed they recovered acid, firebombs and knives from protesters.
Riot police targeted a whirling dervish with tear gas during a protest in Turkey. Video shows his performance disrupted and headwear falling. The demonstration was part of nationwide protests after the arrest of İstanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, a key rival to President Erdoğan. pic.twitter.com/LAYc2PfVJG
— Turkish Minute (@TurkishMinuteTM) March 24, 2025
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said that some circles have been exploiting the right to assemble and demonstrate, attempting to disrupt public order, incite street unrest, and attack our police.
Among those detained also included those having ties to groups listed as terrorist organisations, and previous criminal records.
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Imamoglu's, the top rival of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, arrest is seen as a political move ahead of the presidential race in 2028. Imamoglu was named the opposition’s candidate for president.
Imamoglu was jailed on suspicion of running a criminal organisation, accepting bribes, extortion, extortion and illegally recording personal data.
Temporarily, Imamoglu was suspended from duty following his arrest. The municipality had previously appointed an acting mayor from its governing council.
Imamoglu was taken to Silivri prison. Along with Imamoglu, 47 others were also jailed pending trial including the two district mayors from Istanbul.
