The state-run Anadoru agency reported that prosecutors also issued warrants to 100 other people.
Western media described him as a key rival to President Recept Tayyip Erdogan, who was detained the day after the university invalidated his diploma in a move he was considered politically motivated.
Imamol posted a video Wednesday morning, clearly responding to the move, captioning it, “a blow to the will of the nation.”
The 53-year-old mayor “is now taken into custody and is currently at police headquarters,” a media aide told Agence France-Presse. The aide did not have permission to speak to the media and asked not to name it.
The main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) is scheduled to hold a primary election on March 23, with Imamol expected to be selected as presidential candidate. The Guardian reports that the next presidential vote is scheduled for 2028, but an early election is likely scheduled.
CHP president Özgürözel has accused Imamor’s detention as a “coup.”
MNA