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Over 1,000 protesters arrested after Istanbul mayor's imprisonment

Over 1,000 protesters arrested after Istanbul mayor's imprisonment

Over a thousand people have been arrested during protests over the imprisonment of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Monday.

In a post on X, Yerlikaya said that “1,133 suspects were arrested in illegal activities carried out between March 19 and 23,” adding that “among those arrested were individuals affiliated with 12 different terrorist organizations.” 

More than 120 police officers were also injured in the demonstrations, Yerlikaya said, adding that objects such as "acid, stones, sticks, fireworks, Molotov cocktails, axes and knives" were seized.

 Erdogan called the recent protests a "movement of violence" at a press conference on Monday, saying the main opposition party, the Republican People's Party (CHP), was responsible for any property damage and injuries to police officers that occurred during the demonstrations.

"When they see this, if they have even a little respect, I believe they will feel ashamed of the evil they have done to the country and its people," Erdogan said.

The Turkish opposition leader accused Erdogan of "trying to lead Turkey down an illegal path."

Imamoglu, a political rival of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was arrested a few days ago at his home. 

 

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