Kuşadası Municipality bribery probe leads to 14 arrests

An investigation into bribery and extortion involving the Kuşadası Municipality has led to the arrest of 14 suspects. The probe, conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office's Organized Crime Investigation Bureau, involved simultaneous operations in Aydın, İzmir, and Antalya.

Authorities utilized witness statements, HTS records, and reports from the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) to establish reasonable suspicion of crimes. Among those arrested are the Municipality's Private Secretary Şebnem Kars Şenol, CHP Municipal Council Member Ali Kotan, and various business owners from the construction and hotel sectors.

Charges include bribery, extortion, and membership in an organization for the purpose of committing crimes. While 14 individuals were remanded in custody, three others were released under judicial control. Efforts to apprehend remaining fugitives are ongoing.

In a separate but related corruption matter in Şile, an indictment has been prepared against former Mayor Özgür Kabadayı. He faces potential prison sentences ranging from 33 to 92 years for charges including bribery, forgery of official documents, and fraud.