Protests erupted across Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, leading to clashes with police in several cities, including Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir. Demonstrators, largely led by students, gathered in multiple locations to express their opposition to Imamoglu's arrest and the detentions of about 100 other high-ranking members of the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). The protests, some of which were organized for a second consecutive night, were met with a strong police response, including the use of tear gas and water cannons.

In Ankara, the protests intensified at the prestigious Middle East Technical University, where students continued their demonstrations despite police attempts to disperse them. A group of protesters, reportedly described as "aggressive," blocked a road with garbage containers, setting them on fire. They were also accused of throwing stones at the police, prompting further use of force by law enforcement. The protests grew after a senior official from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) arrived at the scene, attempting to mediate with the police.

In Istanbul, thousands gathered despite a ban on mass gatherings imposed by the city’s governor. The demonstration, which took place near Istanbul City Hall, was attended by prominent figures such as HDP leader Özgür Özel and the mayor of Ankara, Mansur Yavas. Many young people, including students, were present at the rally, which was marked by significant clashes between protesters and law enforcement, as reported by opposition media.

Similar demonstrations took place in Izmir, where police also deployed water cannons against protesters. The protests were sparked by the arrests of Imamoglu and the detained CHP officials, who are facing charges of corruption and alleged links to a terrorist organization. As tensions rise, these protests highlight the deepening political unrest in the country.