Governor Shuts Down Istanbul on May 1

Istanbul's governor and police commissioner held a joint press conference this afternoon, saying that Taksim Square will absolutely be shut down tomorrow and no May 1 demonstrators will be allowed in the area.

Some of the highlights from the press statement included:

"Taksim Square is currently going through a massive construction due to the pedestrianization and construction of tunnels to channel the traffic underground. A 12,000 square feet area is occupied with ongoing constructions.

"In addition, other demonstration channels such as Halaskargazi and Tarlabasi Boulevard, which constitute almost 70 percent of human load, are also under construction. Half of Taksim Square is under construction. Under these circumstances, demonstrations don't seem to be neither safe, secure nor risk-free. Therefore, we have sent notifications several times.  

"We are here to say our final word. Tomorrow, the police forces will tighten up security around Taksim Square area. We will inform the media concerning our preventive measures on public transport.

"We wish that May 1, the day of labor and solidarity, will be celebrated in a enjoyable manner. We have let major union representatives to commemorate Labor Day victims of  1977 at Kazanci Road and Ataturk Monument in Taksim Square. But we will not allow any big crowds there."

3,000 police reinforcement from neighboring cities

Police commissioner Mutlu said they have bolstered security measures with additional 3,000 police officers from neighboring cities.

"There will be marginal groups who will attempt to reach Taksim Square tomorrow. We will have heavy police presence in the gateways such as Besiktas and Sisli. We are calling everyone to be vigilant and not to attend illegal demonstration to avoid getting harmed," he said.

Mutlu: Journalist should stay nearby police forces

Addressing a question on last year's police violence on media representatives, Governor Mutlu said they should not remain in the middle of protestors.

"A journalist knows where to perform their work. How can a police officer recognize you if you are in the middle of a crowd?" Çapkın said. (EA/BM)