Turkish authorities probe social media ‘insults’

Turkish authorities are investigating people who allegedly insulted state officials or incited riots on social media, the deputy prime minister has said.

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has faced tough international criticism over his government’s heavy-handed crackdown on the unprecedented protests that have swept the country.

But in a possible attempt to soften the blow to the country’s democratic reputation, his deputy also said the government would propose further checks on the military.