ISTANBUL - Istanbul Police took tight security measures around Taksim Square -- where Turkey`s major labor unions and other civil organizations are planning to celebrate May 1st Workers` Day-- and the HQs of the Confederation of Revolutionary Workers` Unions (DISK) in Sisli district where the march to Taksim would begin.
The police blocked all roads leading to Taksim Square and formed checkpoints around it.
Meanwhile the police forces dispersed a group of workers, chanting slogans in front of the DISK HQs, with pressurized water sprayed from panzers and tear gas.
The group dispersed into side streets while some entered the DISK HQs building.
Speaking to reporters DISK chairman Suleyman Celebi said, "do not create tension in the country. Do not hamper May 1st celebrations of workers, do not resort to unlawful measures. If the nose of any of the workers here bleeds, the government and the governor will be responsible for it. "
Under the security measures ferry services from Uskudar and Kadikoy piers to Besiktas, Kabatas and Karakoy, and tramcar services between Sirkeci and Kabatas, funicular services between Taksim and Kabatas and subway services between Mecidiyekoy and Taksim are suspended.
(OZG-MS)