Protests Escalate in Turkey Over Istanbul Mayor's Arrest

Over 1,400 arrests, including journalists, reported as demonstrations against Ekrem Imamoglu's detention continue despite government bans.

The arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on March 19, 2025, has triggered nationwide protests across at least 55 provinces, marking one of the largest movements since 2013.
Authorities have detained over 1,400 individuals, including seven journalists, with many facing charges for participating in banned demonstrations.
The Turkish government has extended bans on public gatherings in major cities, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, as protests persist.
The opposition CHP has intensified calls for boycotts of pro-government businesses and designated Imamoglu as its symbolic 2028 presidential candidate.
The Council of Europe has condemned the Turkish government's use of disproportionate force, urging adherence to human rights obligations.