Unrest in Turkey: Erdogan Blames Opposition for Violence

Turkish President Erdogan has claimed that protests over Istanbul mayor's jailing have escalated into violence. Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's arrest has sparked significant demonstrations across Turkey. Erdogan blames the opposition CHP for inciting unrest, while they argue Imamoglu's detention is politically motivated.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan declared on Monday that the protests sparked by the imprisonment of Istanbul's mayor have evolved into a violent movement. Erdogan held the main opposition party responsible for the injuries to police officers and damage to public property.

The unrest began following last Wednesday's detention of Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, Erdogan's main political opponent, leading to Turkey's largest street protests in over a decade. Despite bans on public gatherings, peaceful demonstrations continued for a fifth straight night Sunday, with the CHP urging nationwide protests.

In Ankara, Erdogan accused the CHP of provoking citizens, while Interior Minister Ali Yerlikiaya claimed the protests endangered national security. The CHP denounces Imamoglu's arrest as political and undemocratic, a claim Erdogan's government disputes, insisting on the independence of Turkish courts.

(With inputs from agencies.)