VIDEO: ‘Free hugger’ on Istanbul’s iconic thoroughfare fined by police

ISTANBUL

A “free hugger” has been fined 91 Turkish Liras by police for “disruptive behavior” on Istanbul’s central İstiklal Avenue.

The fine came after the man stood in the middle of the pedestrianized street, covered his eyes with a piece of fabric, and waited for huggers with open arms alongside a banner stating: “I trust you. Do you trust me? Hug me.”

A crowd had soon gathered, with video footage shared online by the man showing that many people answered his call and hugged him.

However, police later intervened and fined the free hugger for disruptive behavior. He included the documented fine prepared by the police in the video that he shared.