Authorities in Ankara have extended the ban on public gatherings in the Turkish capital until April 1, following growing protests sparked by the detention of Istanbul’s opposition mayor Ekrem Imamoglu last week.

In an official statement, the Governorate of Ankara cited “public safety and the protection of social order” as the main reasons for prolonging the ban, which applies to all demonstrations, rallies, and open-air assemblies across the city.

The move comes as nationwide protests continue in major cities including Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara, with opposition groups condemning the arrest as politically motivated.