Turkish authorities have detained dozens of journalists and more than 1,100 protesters as street demonstrations intensified following the imprisonment of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a top rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The media workers' union Disk-Basin-Is said Monday at least eight reporters and photojournalists were detained in what it described as an "attack on press freedoms and the people's right to learn the truth." The union called for the journalists' immediate release as public anger over the mayor's jailing continued to mount.
Imamoglu was formally arrested Sunday on charges of running a criminal organization, accepting bribes, extortion, and bid-rigging, allegations he denies. His detention triggered the largest wave of street demonstrations Turkey has seen in over a decade, with hundreds of thousands rallying nationwide.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that a total of 1,133 people had been detained since Imamoglu's arrest last Wednesday. Yerlikaya added that 123 police officers had been injured and materials such as acid, firebombs, and knives were seized during the protests. "Some circles have been exploiting the right to assemble and demonstrate, attempting to disrupt public order, incite street unrest and attack our police," he said on social media.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdogan described the protests as a "movement of violence" and accused the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) of provoking citizens. He said the opposition would be held accountable for injured police officers and damage to property.
Protests, despite bans on street gatherings in several cities, have continued for six consecutive nights. Demonstrations in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir remained largely peaceful, although clashes erupted in some areas. Police deployed water cannons, tear gas, pepper spray, and plastic pellets, while some demonstrators threw stones and fireworks at riot police.
Imamoglu urged restraint in a message on social media, calling on supporters to gather outside city hall and other key locations. "I'm working hard, I will work even harder. Where I am does not matter," he said, encouraging youths to avoid confrontation and asking police to treat protesters with "kindness."
The CHP has labeled Imamoglu's arrest as politically motivated, widely seen as an effort to sideline a major challenger to Erdogan ahead of the 2028 presidential race. Government officials have denied the accusations, asserting that Turkey's judiciary is independent.
The Interior Ministry confirmed Imamoglu's suspension from duty as a "temporary measure," with an acting mayor appointed from Istanbul's governing council. Alongside Imamoglu, 47 others-including key aides and two district mayors from Istanbul-were jailed pending trial. Another 44 suspects were released under judicial control.
Authorities also announced an investigation into the Ankara mayor's office over the alleged misuse of public funds tied to the organization of 33 concerts, despite prior audits of the events. Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş, like Imamoglu, is another popular opposition figure.
Imamoglu's political rise dealt a significant blow to Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party in 2019, ending the party's 25-year control of Istanbul. Erdogan's party initially challenged the municipal election results, prompting a re-run, which Imamoglu also won. In last year's local elections, Imamoglu retained his seat as the CHP made additional gains.
Social media platform X reported that Turkish authorities issued multiple court orders to block over 700 accounts belonging to journalists, political figures, and media outlets. The platform said it was contesting the orders.
