Turkish police halt LGBT+ protesters in Istanbul

Footage from Istanbul shows police scuffling with LGBT+ demonstrators in an attempt to halt their Pride march on Saturday.

One demonstrator is seen being pinned to the ground by authorities while others are shoved around. Police in riot gear are seen lining up to block the marchers’ path.

The chaotic scenes unfolded on streets near Taksim Square, the Turkish capital’s traditional gathering spot for protesters.

At least 25 people were detained, the local Cumhuriyet newspaper reported.

Istanbul Pride events have been banned since 2015, with Turkish authorities citing public security, and more recently, the coronavirus pandemic.