Turkey Detains Nearly 1,900 Amid Nationwide Protests over Mayor's Arrest

In Turkey, nearly 1,900 individuals have been detained amid widespread protests following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on corruption charges, which many view as politically motivated. The protests, the largest seen in over a decade, have drawn condemnation from opposition parties and international bodies, while the Turkish government defends the actions as legally justified, citing the judiciary's independence. As of now, 172 people are jailed pending trial, facing accusations related to unauthorized gatherings, while others, including journalists and political figures, have also been targeted for their participation. Protests have spread to over 55 provinces, despite government bans on public gatherings in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported ongoing unrest and additional arrests, as the opposition continues to rally against what they describe as government suppression of dissent. The situation remains tense as the country braces for further demonstrations and potential escalation.