11 Jun 2024 | 06:41 PM UTC
Turkiye: Activists to demonstrate in Hakkari and Mersin June 13-14
Opposition activists to protest in Hakkari, Turkiye, from 15:00 June 13, at Mediterranean Municipality building in Mersin at 19:00 June 14.
Activists affiliated with the Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) plan to protest in central Hakkari from 15:00 June 13 and at the Mediterranean Municipality building (Akdeniz Belediyesi) on Zeytinlibahce Caddesi in Mersin from 19:00 June 14. The purpose of the demonstrations is to denounce authorities' recent removal from office and arrest of the mayor of Hakkari; authorities in various eastern and southeastern Turkish provinces, including Hakkari, notably implemented bans on public gatherings following the move. Participants of the June 13 gathering in Hakkari plan to enter the city in a number of marching processions. It was not immediately clear how many people would participate in the demonstrations.
Authorities will almost certainly deploy a heightened security presence to monitor the demonstrations, especially the protest in central Hakkari on June 13. Localized transport disruptions are likely near demonstration sites. Confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out and may quickly escalate into clashes.
Avoid the protests as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling in an area subject to protest activity. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers.
