Protests erupt across Turkey amid bans on public gatherings
The assembly ban announced on Wednesday in Istanbul has been extended to the provinces of Ankara and Izmir. Despite the prohibitions, protests against the detention of Istanbul's opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, continue.
- An assembly ban has been announced in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
- In Istanbul, protests are taking place despite the ban. Thousands of people are protesting Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's detention.
- In many places, clashes with the police occurred, with officers using tear gas and water cannons.
According to the Hurriyet Daily News portal, protests are likely to continue at least until 23rd March, when the main opposition Republican People's Party is set to hold primaries and nominate Imamoglu for the country's presidency. When he was detained on Wednesday, the Istanbul governor's office announced a four-day ban on assemblies "to prevent provocative actions." Despite the ban, thousands took part in protests on Wednesday and Thursday.
The provinces of Ankara and Izmir joined the decision of the Istanbul governor. The demonstration ban will be in effect from Friday afternoon until the end of 25th March. On the night from Thursday to Friday, 53 people were detained, reported Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.
Large-scale protests. Protesters clashed with the police
Tensions escalated during demonstrations in Istanbul when protesters attempted to march to Taksim Square. The police blocked their way and also used tear gas.
Demonstrations, including student participation, occurred in other regions of Turkey, including Ankara and Izmir in the country's west. Intense clashes occurred at the Polytechnic in Ankara. The police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Students reported that rubber bullets were also used, a claim that authorities deny.
According to the independent service Bianet, as of Friday, there are no longer any restrictions on social media access in Turkey, which had been in place for over 40 hours.
