Prosecutors said Ekrem Imamoglu was detained at his home and faces charges related to corruption and terrorism.
Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, one of Turkey's most prominent opposition politicians, was arrested early Wednesday on corruption and terrorism-related charges, city prosecutors said.
A large group of police arrived at Mr. Imamoglu's home and took him away, along with several of his aides. Prosecutors said arrest warrants had been issued for more than 100 people.
Mr Imamoglu is seen as a likely candidate in the next presidential election, scheduled for 2028, although early elections are also likely.
Mr. Imamoglu and other opposition figures have accused the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of seeking to exclude him from politics so that he cannot run in elections, possibly against Mr. Erdogan.
In a video posted on social media before his arrest, Mr Imamoglu can be seen tying his tie in his closet and accusing the government of “usurping the will of the people”.
“We are facing a great tyranny, but I want you to know that I will not be discouraged,” he said.
