Hundreds of security troops have arrived at the scene early morning. The square itself is mostly empty of protesters at the moment. The few protesters present at the square when police arrived were quickly dispersed with tear gas, eyewitnesses report. Some of the police are dismantling barricades, which protesters erected over the days of protests. Others are using water cannons to scatter some protesters trying to retake the square. The activists threw firebombs and fireworks at the armored police trucks. Police officials told the media they are taking control of the square to protect a monument in it from vandalism. The Monument of the Republic, commemorating the 5th anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923 is located in Taksim Square. The development follows sporadic night clashes between security forces and rioting protesters in Ankara. Turkish police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. Taksim Square is one of two primary locations of anti-government protests in Turkey, which are entering their 11th day on Tuesday. DETAILS TO FOLLOW … Read More
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