Extensive Investigation into Corruption Allegations in Istanbul Municipalities
As part of the ongoing investigation, judicial authorities have issued arrest warrants for a significant number of municipal officials and related individuals. Reports indicate that so far, around 30 out of 47 suspects sought have been detained. Operations to apprehend the remaining suspects are still underway.
One of the cases under investigation involves allegations concerning the Büyükçekmece Municipality. According to prosecution documents, some officials in this municipality are accused of demanding financial benefits from construction companies in exchange for issuing building permits. In connection with this, the district mayor, Hasan Akgün, and one of his deputies have been arrested.
In another case, an investigation is being conducted into possible irregularities in certain contracts of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. The probe includes allegations against senior managers and employees of the central municipality. One of the suspects in the case is the CEO of a municipal-affiliated company, accused of receiving financial advantages from contractors.
Additionally, an investigation has been launched into how the Beşiktaş Municipality conducted the tender for Republic Day ceremonies in 2019. Judicial authorities stated that there are suspicions of bid manipulation and the use of intermediary companies. Several former and current officials from this municipality have been detained in connection with the case.
Reports indicate that some of those detained have been taken to medical centers for health checks. Judicial officials emphasized that investigations are ongoing and more information may be released in the coming days.
