Ekrem İmamoğlu faces massive prison sentences in organized crime trial

The 67th hearing of the trial involving an alleged organized crime group has commenced in Istanbul. The case involves 414 defendants, 53 of whom are currently in custody. The indictment, prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, alleges that the group's activities since 2014 resulted in approximately 160 billion lira and 24 million dollars in public losses across 143 specific actions.

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu is identified in the indictment as the ‘leader of the organization.’ Prosecutors are seeking prison sentences for İmamoğlu ranging from 849 to 2,430 years for charges including establishing an organization for the purpose of committing crimes, bribery, extortion, bid-rigging, fraud, and money laundering.

Other high-profile defendants include Şişli Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan and Beylikdüzü Mayor Mehmet Murat Çalık. Prosecutors are seeking up to 91 years of imprisonment for Şahan and up to 88 years for Çalık. During the current session, the court is hearing defenses from defendants who are not in custody. Some defendants, including members of İmamoğlu’s security and municipal staff, have denied the allegations, requesting acquittal.