Turkish protesters rally against coup attempt in major cities

Thousands of protesters gathered on Saturday in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir to protest the coup attempt which killed at least 194 people and led to chaos in major cities in Turkey, Hurriyet News reported.

Protesters waving flags gathered in Istanbul's Taksim Square on Saturday night. The group also staged a march toward the central Istiklal Avenue, Xinhua news agency reported.

Thousands gathered at the central Kizilay Square of capital Ankara on late Saturday to protest the coup attempt, chanting anti-coup slogans.

Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was due to address the crowd but it was postponed later. The square was also closed to traffic. Protesters said they will stay until officials ask them to return to their homes.

In the Aegean province of Izmir, protesters gathered in the central Konak Square and chanted anti-coup slogans.

Following the coup attempt in the country on July 15, Turkish officials called on the nation to continue to protest the coup attempt.

Defence Minister Fikri Isik said it was early to say that the coup danger was completely over, while urging caution in Turkey.

--IANS

lok/