Turkish police arrest more than 500 people at May Day rallies

Turkish police have reportedly arrested more than 500 people and fired tear gas at May Day demonstrations in Istanbul.Many of those arrested were trying to march to Taksim Square, which has seen a number of anti-government protests in the past.The square, where demonstrations have been banned since 2013, was sealed off by police overnight.Turkey sees significant police deployments on 1 May each year, when marches led by workers and unions are held as part of International Labour Day celebrations in many countries.The CHD lawyers' group, which was at the rallies, said there had been more than 500 arrests. In Ankara, several groups gathered in Tandogan Square.Celebrations are going ahead in Kadikoy and Kartal, after they were permitted by the governor's office.May Day celebrations in Izmir are taking place at Gundogdu Square, while in Diyarbakır they are being held at Istasyon Square.