Istanbul erupts: Mayor's arrest ignites massive protests
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, cover their faces with masks. Many of them believe that Imamoglu's arrest is a political move aimed at excluding 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 riots.
Authorities' and public's reaction
Imamoglu has been accused of corruption, running a criminal organization, and other crimes. He calls these charges "unimaginable accusations and slanders." He was taken to Silivri prison, which 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 launched the presidential elections, with Imamoglu as the sole candidate.
Imamoglu expressed gratitude to his supporters on social media, highlighting that the nation is prepared to deliver a powerful message to the government.
