Breaking News: Police Use Tear Gas on CHP Lawmakers Outside Istanbul Provincial Headquarters

Tensions escalated in Istanbul after police forces intervened with tear gas against lawmakers and citizens gathered in front of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) Istanbul Provincial Headquarters. The intervention came shortly after reports that Gürsel Tekin, appointed as trustee to the CHP Istanbul branch, was on his way to the building.

Videos and eyewitness accounts shared on social media showed police surrounding the provincial headquarters and clashing with crowds. Several people reported being detained.

Provincial Ban on Gatherings

The crackdown followed a statement from the Istanbul Governor’s Office, which announced a blanket ban on all open-air events across several central districts—Beşiktaş, Beyoğlu, Eyüpsultan, Kağıthane, Sarıyer, and Şişli—between 7 and 10 September.

Despite the ban, calls were made to gather outside the CHP Istanbul building on Sunday evening, September 7. Police forces sealed off the building in advance, creating a heavy security perimeter.

Morning Tensions Turn Into Noon Confrontation

Crowds began assembling outside the party headquarters from the early morning hours. By midday, police had intensified their intervention. Witnesses reported heavy use of tear gas and physical clashes as law enforcement attempted to disperse both supporters and party members who insisted on remaining in the area.

Multiple social media users reported that several people were taken into custody, though no official numbers have been confirmed.

Trigger: Gürsel Tekin’s Approach

The situation escalated further after news broke that trustee Gürsel Tekin was heading toward the CHP Istanbul office. Tekin’s appointment has already sparked controversy and protests, with party officials declaring that they do not recognize the decision.

As Tekin’s arrival became imminent, police launched a stronger intervention against those gathered, using tear gas against both lawmakers and citizens outside the building.

Political Fallout Likely

The latest developments are expected to deepen tensions within Turkey’s political landscape, as opposition parties denounce both the trustee appointment and the heavy-handed police tactics.

Observers note that the incident could further inflame debates over freedom of assembly, political intervention in party structures, and the role of security forces in political disputes.

Growing Crisis in Istanbul

The police intervention at the CHP Istanbul Provincial Headquarters underscores the volatile atmosphere surrounding the trustee appointment of Gürsel Tekin. With bans on public gatherings in key districts and the use of force against elected lawmakers, the crisis has entered a new phase.

As detentions continue and tensions mount, the coming days are expected to see further political fallout, protests, and international reactions to the events in Istanbul.