Turkey Detains Journalists Amid Nationwide Protests Over Imamoglu’s Arrest

Turkish authorities detained multiple journalists on Monday as protests erupted nationwide following the imprisonment of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. The move intensified concerns over press freedom and political repression.

The media workers’ union Disk-Basin-Is confirmed the arrests, condemning them as an attack on journalism and the public’s right to information. The detained journalists were taken from their homes in early morning raids. No official statement has been issued by the government regarding the detentions.

Imamoglu, a key opposition leader and member of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), was arrested on corruption charges last week. His detention sparked the largest wave of demonstrations in Turkey in over a decade. Supporters claim the charges are politically motivated, aiming to eliminate Erdogan’s strongest rival ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.

Government officials deny political interference, stating the judiciary remains independent. However, human rights organizations have raised concerns over press freedom, highlighting increased crackdowns on journalists under Erdogan’s administration.

With tensions rising and international scrutiny growing, Turkey faces mounting pressure over its handling of opposition figures and media restrictions.