Ankara, Turkey – Police intervened in a commemoration march held in Ankara on the third anniversary of the devastating Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes of February 6, 2023. The march, organized by the Ankara Labor and Democracy Forces, aimed to honor the lives lost in the disaster.
Police Block Commemoration March in Ankara
Citizens, political parties, and non-governmental organizations gathered at the Kolej Metro station at 6:30 PM, responding to a call from the Ankara Labor and Democracy Forces. Their intention was to march to Yüksel Street to commemorate the victims of the February 6 earthquakes.
Intervention and Detentions Reported
However, police teams intervened in the crowd’s march. According to a statement from Umut-Sen, which was following the event, some citizens were taken into custody during the intervention. The incident took place on the third anniversary of the powerful earthquakes that struck southern and central Turkey and northern and western Syria, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life.
Background of the February 6 Earthquakes
The earthquakes, which occurred on February 6, 2023, with magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.5, were among the strongest to hit the region in decades. They resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and left millions displaced. Commemoration events are being held across Turkey to remember the victims and reflect on the recovery efforts.
The intervention by police during this commemorative event has drawn attention to the ongoing sensitivities surrounding public gatherings and demonstrations in Ankara, particularly concerning events with political or social undertones.
Further details regarding the number of detentions and the specific reasons for the police intervention are expected to be released as the situation develops.
Source: https://www.cumhuriyet.com.tr/turkiye/ankara-da-6-subat-yuruyusune-polis-mudahalesi-2476622
