In Istanbul, motorists launch a siren chase for government loyalists
Drivers and internet users have launched a hunt for official flashing lights that were improperly distributed to those close to the government to allow them to drive freely in Istanbul, a city congested by traffic.
The density of road traffic is one of the major drawbacks of life for Istanbulites. According to the 2024 ranking of Inrix , a company specializing in the subject, the city of Istanbul would be the most congested in the world. One more reason for drivers to be exasperated by these numerous cars equipped with a blue interior flashing light and a sort of siren as a horn that make their way onto the emergency lane or warn other drivers to let them pass. These sirens are a privilege that is, in principle, only granted to high-ranking officials to facilitate their travel. Two months ago, however, Internet users spotted the daughter of Cübelli Ahmet Hoca, a famous television preacher, at the wheel of one of these vehicles , causing controversy.
In recent days, as the arrest in March of Istanbul's opposition mayor,Ekrem Imamoglu , has heightened political tension in the country, many drivers have taken the initiative to call out the owners of these vehicles and share the videos on social media. "I'm the prefect's nephew," replied the driver of a luxury car when he was shouted at as he cut off several vehicles.
Courrier International
