Turkish authorities have arrested two Russians and a Turkish national, saying they are suspected members of the so-called Islamic State (IS), after an investigation into a planned attack against a transgender rights rally.
Turkey's Dogan news agency reported on June 22 that the suspects, including two Russians from the Dagestan region, were arrested in Istanbul late on June 21 after authorities received information that they were planning an attack against a "Trans Pride" rally on June 19.
Police said the three suspects had traveled to territory in war zones that are under control of IS militants, but did not specify where.
Their arrests came after police confiscated suicide vests and other materials during raids in two Istanbul suburbs on June 17.
Authorities banned the transgender rights rally, citing security concerns.
Police on June 19 fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse about 50 people who showed up for the demonstration.
