In a statement condemning the excessive use of police force against Gezi protestors in Istanbul on 8 July, Amnesty International urged Turkish authorities to immediately release peaceful demonstrators who were detained in Taksim and to investigate allegations of the excessive use of force after riot police used tear gas and water canons to clear the square and neighbouring Gezi park.

“The authorities in Turkey have the duty to ensure people can peacefully gather and express their views,” said John Dalhuisen, Europe and Central Asia Director at Amnesty International.

Dalhuisen said that it is imperative that an impartial investigation into the alleged abuses by riot police is carried out as soon as possible, and that those responsible of any crime face justice.

Dalhuisen reminded that according to the Istanbul Medical Association at least 30 people were injured on Monday including a 17 year-old man who is in a critical condition with head injuries after he was hit with a gas canister.

“The behaviour of the police in and around Taksim square marks a sorry return to very tactics that provoked the recent wave of protest across Turkey. It seems that the Turkish authorities remain as determined as ever to prevent dissenting voices from gathering in Taksim square.” said John Dalhuisen.

Dalhuisen added that amongst those detained are representatives of Taksim Solidarity, including the General Secretary of the Istanbul Medical Association, Ali Çerkezoğlu, and the Secretary of the Chamber of Architects, Mücella Yapıcı.