Turkey Cracks Down on Protests Following Imamoglu's Arrest

Dozens have been arrested in Turkey for online posts deemed provocative in the wake of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's detention, triggering major protests and government crackdowns.

Turkish authorities have taken decisive action, arresting dozens for allegedly inciting unrest on social media following the high-profile detention of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure and likely presidential candidate for the 2028 elections, was apprehended alongside over 100 others amid accusations involving corruption and links to terrorist organizations. His arrest has ignited widespread demonstrations across Istanbul and Ankara, with supporters calling it a politically motivated coup against the opposition.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya revealed that 261 social media accounts are under investigation for violating laws related to inciting hatred and promoting criminal activity. While 37 individuals have already been apprehended, authorities are actively pursuing the remaining suspects. This online crackdown has not deterred the thousands who have taken to the streets to express their outrage, despite the Istanbul governor’s four-day protest ban.

Protests erupted outside city hall, where chants of “Erdogan, dictator” echoed as opposition leaders rallied communities to stand up against the current regime. Clashes between police and demonstrators were reported, with law enforcement resorting to tear gas and pepper spray to disperse crowds. In light of the unrest, Turkish authorities have also imposed restrictions on social media platforms, making communication more difficult.

Imamoglu’s detention has raised the stakes for Turkish politics, especially as he recently secured re-election as Istanbul's mayor last year, marking a notable defeat for President Erdogan’s ruling party. The backdrop to this suppression is a series of broader crackdowns targeting political adversaries, media personnel, and cultural figures as Turkey approaches the 2023 electoral landscape. With the CHP expected to formally name Imamoglu as their candidate this coming Sunday, tensions are likely to escalate, with opposition groups calling for nationwide demonstrations.