Türkiye releases arrested May 1 protesters

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Ankara: Following a massive security crackdown during May Day rallies in Istanbul, Turkish authorities have released more than 500 detained protesters. 

The Contemporary Lawyers' Association (CHD) confirmed that by Saturday morning, all 576 individuals arrested during the Friday demonstrations had been set free. Among those released was union official Basaran Aksu, who had publicly condemned the government’s decision to seal off symbolic public spaces.

The arrests occurred as police utilized tear gas to disperse crowds attempting to reach Taksim Square, a site historically significant for labor movements but closed to major rallies since 2013. 

While the Istanbul governor's office recorded 575 arrests, legal advocates worked throughout the night to document the detentions and provide aid to those held in custody.

The rallies, held under the slogan ‘Bread. Peace. Freedom.’, faced a heavy police presence that effectively locked down the heart of Istanbul. Despite the release of the May 1 protesters, the CHD noted that several individuals arrested earlier in the week remain in custody or under house arrest as part of ongoing security measures in Türkiye.

Photo Credits: AFP