Turkish police detained at least 50 people, including journalist Muberra Unsal, during a banned Gay Pride event in Istanbul, despite heightened security and a city lockdown.
Turkish police arrested more than 500 people at May Day demonstrations in Istanbul, with many attempting to march to Taksim Square, which has been banned for demonstrations since 2013. The square was sealed off overnight with extensive security. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds in Mecidiyekoy, where Turkish Workers' Party president Erkan Bas was among those who breached barricades. Celebrations proceeded in permitted areas including Kadikoy, Kartal, Izmir and Diyarbakir.
Istanbul police detained approximately 350 people participating in unauthorized May Day protests who attempted to enter Taksim Square, using tear gas to disperse the crowds. For years, authorities have prohibited mass rallies in Taksim Square on May 1, designating alternative areas in two districts for labor union events. Transportation restrictions were imposed in Istanbul, while demonstrations also took place in Ankara and other Turkish cities under heightened security.
