Turkish police detained 575 people in Istanbul during May Day protests, as authorities enforced a ban on demonstrations in key parts of the city. The arrests were confirmed by the Istanbul governor’s office after protesters attempted to gather despite heavy restrictions.
Large numbers of police were deployed across Istanbul, particularly around Taksim Square, a symbolic site for labour movements that has been off-limits for May Day rallies for years. Protesters attempting to march toward the area were blocked, with clashes reported in districts including Mecidiyekoy, where police used water cannons and pepper spray.
Authorities said the measures were necessary to maintain public order, while critics accused the government of restricting the right to peaceful assembly. The crackdown came just a day after Türkiye’s Constitutional Court ruled that the detention of three people during May Day 2024 protests had violated their rights.
May Day, or International Workers’ Day, has long been a flashpoint in Türkiye, with recurring tensions between demonstrators and security forces. This year’s mass detentions highlight the ongoing dispute over protest rights and government control of public gatherings.
