PM Erdogan visited Middle Eastern Technical University (METU) last night for the launch ceremony of Göktürk 2 satellite at a space technology research institute. Hundreds of METU students gathered in campus center to protest the ceremony.

Prior to Erdogan's arrival, approximately 3,000 police officers and 8 armored intervention vehicles were deployed on campus.

"Police was casting tear gas bombs at students every 30 seconds. They were even attacking harshly as students were retreating. Police might be seeking revenge from previous student protests," METU Professor Ferdan Ergut told bianet. "Professor gathered on the steps of University President's Office until police left campus at 7:30 pm."

While several students were reported injured from the tear gas, an exact number has yet to be announced. Many trees on university campus were affected from the fire caused by tear gas bombs.

According to CNN Türk, tear gas smoke spread to the campus area where classes were held. Dozens of students have been photographed vomiting and fainting.

"We recommend all students who have been subject to police brutality tonight to visit our office for alternative medical reports to file a lawsuit," Human Rights Foundation of Turkey announced on Facebook. (ÇT/EKN)

* Photo credit: kollektifker.net