Istanbul Mayor Hakan Bahçetepe Faces First Court Hearing on Corruption Charges

Gaziosmanpaşa district mayor Hakan Bahçetepe appeared before the Çağlayan Court in Istanbul after more than a year of pre‑trial detention. Security around the courthouse was heightened with barriers and strict entry checks; journalists and even his family were denied access.

The prosecution’s indictment accuses Bahçetepe of taking and giving bribes, laundering proceeds, and illicit enrichment, seeking a prison term ranging from 10 to 24 years. Allegations centre on a $300,000 bribe linked to a construction permit and a disputed vehicle purchase allegedly financed with illicit funds. The case is part of a broader crackdown on municipal officials in Turkey.

The court is set to hear testimony and consider the prosecution’s request for further investigative measures, while the defence prepares its response.