Turkish unrest escalates as Istanbul mayor imprisoned
The arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul, has sparked a wave of protests in Turkey. Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets despite the ban on gatherings. The police used pepper spray and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.
The demonstrations in Istanbul are the largest in over a decade. Protesters, fearing recognition, are covering their faces with masks. Many of them believe that Imamoglu's arrest is a political move aimed at removing him from the 2028 presidential elections.
Although most of the protests were peaceful, in some cities, such as Ankara and Izmir, clashes with the police occurred.
Źródło: Getty Images
Prosthetics in Istanbul.
Źródło: Getty Images
Prosthetics in Istanbul.
Źródło: Getty Images
Prosthetics in Istanbul.
Źródło: Getty Images
Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu Charged With Corruption Amid Wave Of Protests ISTANBUL, TURKEY - MARCH 23: A police officer kicks a protester during clashes in front of Istanbul's famous Aquaduct on March 23, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey. The Mayor of I...
Źródło: Getty Images
Prosthetics in Istanbul.
Źródło: Getty Images
Prosthetics in Istanbul.
Officers used water cannons and tear gas, and some demonstrators threw stones and fireworks. The Turkish Minister of Internal Affairs reported the arrest of 323 people connected to the disturbances.
Authorities' and public's reaction
Imamoglu has been accused of corruption, running a criminal organisation, and other crimes. He calls these charges "unimaginable accusations and slanders." His arrest at Silivri prison sparked even greater public outrage.
The Turkish government denies that the arrest has a political basis, claiming that the courts operate independently. Meanwhile, the Republican People's Party (CHP) has begun the presidential elections, with Imamoglu as the sole candidate.
On social media, Imamoglu thanked supporters, saying the nation would give the government an unforgettable lesson.
