Thousands have gathered in Şişli, İstanbul today to protest the arrest of HDP Co-chairs and deputies in a major crackdown on the party.

The demonstration organized by HDP Istanbul provincial organisation was joined by thousands who chanted “Shoulder to shoulder against fascism”, “HDP is hope that stands tall”, “Murderer Erdoğan”, “This is just the beginning, keep the struggle going”. Demonstrators in large numbers closed the street to traffic.

Police attacked the mass after HDP Istanbul provincial Co-chair Doğan Erbaş held a speech.

Protestors have set up barricades at the scene and are responding to the attack with stones. Clashes continue.