Stories from Turkey

Gendarmerie crime investigation teams are actively conducting a detailed investigation into a murder case in Tunceli. Teams are using specialized scanning devices to examine puddles and rock crevices for evidence.

At least 600 people were arrested in Istanbul during May Day celebrations. Local bar associations report that at least 550 people were detained in Istanbul, and police utilized tear gas and water cannons. Protesters attempted to march to Taksim Square, which has been a banned demonstration site since 2013. Tens of thousands of people participated in approved events in the Asian part of Istanbul. Protesters primarily demonstrated against the precarious economic situation and inflation. The arrests occurred on the margins of the festivities, according to the report. Police intervened against groups attempting to march in Istanbul, resulting in the detention of 575 people. Authorities permitted only union and professional chamber representatives to march in Taksim. Groups departed from Kazancı Hill and the Republic Monument after laying wreaths.

The Eurovision Song Contest faced controversy following the last-minute disqualification of the Netherlands. This event occurred despite widespread protests and calls across Europe in 2024 regarding the participation of Israel.

Six countries, including Azerbaijan and Georgia, were identified as having engaged in point trading during the second semi-final of a competition. The investigation follows a scandal involving voting irregularities that occurred during the Russia-Ukraine war in 2020. The source noted that while Ukraine won the competition, the scandal regarding irregular voting patterns has surfaced. The competition was described as one of the most in history following protests regarding Israel's participation and the last-minute disqualification of the Netherlands. These events occurred despite widespread calls across Europe for Israel to be excluded from the contest. The source reported that the suspects are being investigated for tampering with voting processes. The source did not specify the jurisdiction or the specific election involved.

Turkish tourism numbers reached 17 million visitors by the end of the year, according to reports from NTV Radyo.

Turkey's net foreign reserves decreased to $54.2 billion during the week of April 24, down from $58.4 billion. Domestic demand for foreign currency also declined, with local investor foreign currency deposits dropping by $557 million.

Activists arriving from Crete, Greece, to Istanbul are planning to file lawsuits against Israeli officials in Turkish courts. Approximately 170 activists from the Sumut Flotilla returned to Turkey on the night of April 29. The flotilla, consisting of about 50 ships, departed from Spain on April 12 to deliver humanitarian aid and break the Israeli blockade of Gaza. Activists expressed gratitude to Turkish state officials and bureaucrats upon their return. Approximately 170 activists arrived at Istanbul Airport on the night of April 29 and held a press conference declaring they will continue their journey. Greek authorities transferred activists to Heraklion International Airport for repatriation, according to the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Some activists were also taken to Sidiap Hospital for medical care.

Australian golfer Elfa Smiley is tied for 23rd place at the midway point of the European Tourist Turkish Open. The 24-year-old player recorded a second-round score of 72, bringing her total to 200 for the tournament. She currently sits five shots off the lead. Fellow Australian golfer David Michaluzzi is currently outside the top 50 with a score of one over par. Commentator Holmbrook stated that boosting senior ranks will help improve performance. The tournament continues with upcoming matches against South.

Justice Minister Akın Gürlek announced the establishment of 16 new international judicial cooperation offices across Turkey. This move is part of the Fourth Judicial Reform Strategy Document aimed at increasing international judicial cooperation capacity. The initiative seeks to accelerate the process of judicial cooperation in criminal matters. Currently, six such offices operate successfully in specific provinces. These will be expanded nationwide with the addition of 16 new bureaus. The festival is nearing its end in Ordu, with one or two days remaining. It will begin in Aydın today. The festival will feature a discussion on the traditional craft of bellows boot making.

Emergency and fire crews responded to a building fire in the Tepebaşı district of Eskişehir. A worker became suspended from a balcony during the incident and required rescue. Rescuers first used ropes to secure the worker before pulling them to safety.