Turkish Journalist Detained Amid Protests: A Battle for Press Freedom

Photojournalist Yasin Akgul was detained by a Turkish court for allegedly participating in illegal meetings while covering protests against Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's jailing. Despite his defense citing journalistic duties, Akgul remains jailed awaiting trial, as protests against the government's actions continue to escalate across Turkey.

Yasin Akgul, a photojournalist for Agence France-Presse, has been detained by a Turkish court amid ongoing investigations into nationwide protests over the imprisonment of Istanbul's mayor. The Turkish Journalists Union confirmed the detention on Tuesday.

The court accused Akgul of attending unauthorized gatherings and refusing to disperse despite warnings. In his defense, Akgul argued that he was present as a journalist covering the events, and his legal team has petitioned for his release. The detainment persists as the case moves toward trial.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that 1,418 protesters have been detained since Wednesday, with 478 expected to face judicial proceedings. Protests continue to grip the nation, with participants prepared for a prolonged resistance against President Erdogan's claims that their demonstrations will subside.

(With inputs from agencies.)