This May Day saw Turkish protesters clash with riot police while a protest was being carried out in Istanbul.
The protest was carried out in response to a controversial security bill passed in Parliament. The bill gives the riot police expanded powers to crack down on protesters. Previous labour days have seen clashes between security forces and leftist protesters too but this was the largest gathering after the 2013 protest against plans to redevelop Gezi Park. This protest saw 2000 people from leftist groups coming out on the streets.
The Taksim square, which is usually bustling with shoppers, was filled with media trucks, ambulances and police buses. The peaceful protest turned violent when the police tried to clear the Taksim Square of the protesters. Though police tightened security all over, it also blocked all vehicle access to central Taksim Square with only residents access in the area. Due to security concerns, majority of public transport had been shut down with helicopters also circling over the city.
The Turkish police used measures such as tear gas and water canons in Besikta’s square and Okmeyani district to disperse the crowd. The protesters retaliated with throwing stones and hurling firecrackers at the police who were detaining protesters. The police say 140 people were arrested but the activists say double the number were detained.
By the afternoon, a clean up movement began along with traffic and vehicle access but the unions and activists still plan to take to the streets. Here is the event, from the eyes of social media.
