Istanbul police detained more than 140 protesters who tried to break the chain and enter closed areas in the central part of the city, particularly Taksim Square, Halk television reports.

Istanbul authorities have banned May 1 demonstrations by trade unions and political parties at Taksim Square, cordoning off the latter and deploying increased security along the perimeter. Also, there are armored water cannons in the area.

About 70 streets are blocked, and all roads leading to Taksim Square are closed to traffic.

May 1 is Labor and Solidarity Day in Turkey.