# Verdicts and ongoing hearings in Turkish municipal trial > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-mayoral-corruption-and-politicalespionage-probes-expand-ending-with-the-trial-of-former-ista > Updated: 2026-09-12T01:00:00.000Z. Sources: 295. Developments: 123. The corruption and organized crime trial involving Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu continues in Silivri. The case involves 414 defendants, with 51 currently in custody. Prosecutors allege that the criminal organization, which they identify İmamoğlu as the leader, has caused a public loss of approximately 160 billion lira and 24 million dollars since 2014, while acquiring 95 real estate properties. Other defendants named as managers include Murat Ongun and Fatih Keleş. During the 78th hearing, Eyüp Subaşı, a media company owner acting as a cooperating witness, provided testimony regarding digital advertising rights. Subaşı testified that he was pressured to transfer his digital advertising assets to a firm named Reklamist under the direction of Murat Ongun. He claimed that while an initial verbal agreement for the transfer was set at over 75 million TL, the figure was reduced to 46 million TL following Ongun’s intervention. Subaşı also stated that he heard the term ‘system’ frequently used by advisors within the administration. The hearing was marked by tension and verbal confrontations between legal teams. Parallel investigations into municipal tenders have intensified. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating allegations of bid rigging, bribery, and public loss related to İBB procurement. This probe has led to the referral of twelve suspects to the judiciary, including high-ranking officials from the Purchasing, Finance, Revenue, and Support Services departments. As the trial continues, the legal status of the mayor remains suspended. ## Claims - The trial involves 200 defendants. (disputed by 35 sources) - Aziz İhsan Aktaş was sentenced to 2 years, 8 months, and 15 days in prison for tender manipulation. (disputed by 19 sources) - The case involves 414 defendants, with 53 currently in custody. (disputed by 17 sources) - Prosecutors seek 86 to 234 years in prison for Beşiktaş Mayor Rıza Akpolat. (disputed by 12 sources) - Rıza Akpolat received a prison sentence of 23 years and three months. (disputed by 11 sources) - Businessman Aziz İhsan Aktaş was acquitted of leading a criminal organization. (disputed by 11 sources) - Ekrem İmamoğlu faces charges for over 140 separate actions, including managing a criminal organization. (disputed by 6 sources) - Former Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu is currently in preventive detention facing corruption charges. (disputed by 6 sources) - The Istanbul 1st High Criminal Court is presiding over the case. (corroborated by 33 sources) - The investigation is based on an inspection report by the Ministry of Interior's Civil Inspectors and expert findings. (corroborated by 22 sources) - The Aziz İhsan Aktaş criminal organization is accused of organizing municipal tenders through bribery. (corroborated by 21 sources) - Between February 6 and December 31, 2023, 4.3 billion TL in donations were collected for earthquake victims. (corroborated by 17 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-12: Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality corruption trial sees bribery testimonies Businessmen have provided bribery testimonies in the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality corruption trial, alleging payments were made to subsidiaries to recover outstanding debts. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-metropolitan-municipality-corruption-trial-sees-bribery-testimonies ### 2026-09-09: Istanbul political and corruption legal proceedings intensify Legal disputes intensify in Istanbul as Özgür Çelik testifies regarding alleged political threats in Üsküdar, while the İBB corruption trial features testimonies on cash payments and 'friendship' business deals 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-trial-continues-as-witness-testifies-on-advertising-rights ### 2026-09-02: Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality officials detained in corruption probe Turkish authorities have detained several high-level Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality officials amid a corruption probe into bid-rigging and public loss. The investigation coincides with ongoing trials for Ek 23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-metropolitan-municipality-officials-detained-in-new-operation ### 2026-09-02: Ekrem İmamoğlu trial continues amid organized crime allegations The trial of suspended Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu continues, with allegations of organized crime and significant public loss. His wife, Dilek İmamoğlu, has called for a fair and non-custodial trial. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-trial-continues-amid-organized-crime-allegations ### 2026-08-31: Ekrem İmamoğlu İBB trial continues with 414 defendants The İBB corruption trial involving 414 defendants, including Ekrem İmamoğlu, continues with ongoing requests for release and defense statements regarding alleged organizational crimes and public losses. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-trial-enters-72nd-hearing-amid-organization-allegations ### 2026-08-26: Bakırköy prosecutors arrest four suspects in bribery sting involving journalist Four suspects, including a lawyer, were caught red-handed after allegedly promising to secure the release of journalist Mehmet Akif Ersoy in exchange for money. Related IBB corruption trials continue. 19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/driver-testifies-in-ekrem-imamolu-criminal-organization-trial ### 2026-08-25: Rıza Akpolat sentenced to 23 years in corruption trial Former Beşiktaş Mayor Rıza Akpolat was sentenced to 23 years for corruption in a major Istanbul trial. Meanwhile, mining workers in Ankara continue protests over unpaid wages, leading to union leader arrests. 35 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zgr-zel-criticizes-judicial-rulings-in-aziz-ihsan-akta-case ### 2026-08-24: Ekrem İmamoğlu corruption trial enters 70th day of hearings The corruption trial involving Ekrem İmamoğlu and the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality continues, with prosecutors seeking up to 2,352 years in prison for İmamoğlu amid bribery and money laundering charges. 33 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-criticizes-judicial-process-from-detention ### 2026-08-23: Turkish opposition mayors convicted in major corruption trial An Istanbul court convicted several Turkish opposition mayors for bribery and bid-rigging in a case involving 200 defendants. Beşiktaş Mayor Rıza Akpolat received the heaviest sentence of over 23 years. 88 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aziz-ihsan-akta-case-verdict-expected-in-municipal-corruption-trial ### 2026-08-19: Ekrem İmamoğlu corruption trial faces massive prison sentence claims The corruption trial of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu continues, with prosecutors seeking up to 2,352 years in prison amid bribery and organized crime allegations from multiple witnesses. 32 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-faces-massive-prison-sentences-in-organized-crime-trial ### 2026-08-17: Ekrem İmamoğlu corruption trial resumes in Silivri The corruption trial of 414 defendants, including Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, has resumed in a new Silivri courtroom amid disputes over defense rights and facility conditions. 26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ibb-trial-second-session-begins-in-silivri ### 2026-07-27: Turkish Court Postpones 57th Hearing in Aziz İhsan Aktaş Criminal Trial Turkey’s Istanbul 1st Heavy Penal Court postponed the 57th hearing of the Aziz İhsan Aktaş criminal case, involving ~200 defendants including former mayors, who denied forgery and irregularity accusations. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-court-postpones-57th-hearing-in-aziz-ihsan-akta-criminal-trial ### 2026-07-20: Lawyer Tora Pekin Says Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu Faces Conviction and Political Ban Lawyer Tora Pekin says the Istanbul mayor’s trial aims to convict Ekrem İmamoğlu and impose a political ban, accusing the process of political motivation and noting a rushed July hearing that denied his defence 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lawyer-tora-pekin-says-istanbul-mayor-imamolu-faces-conviction-and-political-ban ### 2026-07-20: Mayor Fatma Kaplan Hürriyet and spouse detained in İzmit corruption raid Police raided İzmit municipality and four other cities, detaining mayor Fatma Kaplan Hürriyet, her spouse and 28 others on charges of organized crime, bribery and bid‑rigging in municipal contracts. 83 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/izmit-mayor-fatma-kaplan-hrriyet-detained-in-police-operation ### 2026-07-17: Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu Denied Right to Defend in Court, Lawyers Seek Judge Change Ekrem İmamoğlu was barred from defending himself at a July court hearing; his lawyers have petitioned to replace the judges, citing bias and procedural flaws. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-ekrem-imamolu-denied-right-to-defend-in-court-lawyers-seek-judge-change ### 2026-07-13: Gaziosmanpaşa Mayor Hakan Bahçetepe on trial for alleged bribery Mayor Hakan Bahçetepe, deputy secretary Erdal Celal Aksoy and others are on trial in Istanbul for bribery, money‑laundering and illicit enrichment; Aksoy was released on health grounds. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-hakan-bahetepes-corruption-trial-begins ### 2026-07-12: Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu's expert‑witness case postponed, likely to be dismissed Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu's case over alleged influence on an expert witness was postponed to Dec 8 after a prosecutor change; a pre‑payment by his lawyers suggests the charge may be dismissed. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-ekrem-imamolus-expertwitness-case-postponed-likely-to-be-dismissed ### 2026-07-11: Istanbul Mayor Hakan Bahçetepe Faces First Court Hearing on Corruption Charges Istanbul mayor Hakan Bahçetepe’s first court hearing, after a year in detention, features tightened courthouse security and accusations of bribery, money‑laundering and illicit enrichment, with prosecutors seek 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-hakan-bahetepe-faces-first-court-hearing-on-corruption-charges ### 2026-07-11: Council of Europe warns Turkey over fair‑trial rights in Istanbul mayor’s case Council of Europe human‑rights commissioner warned Turkey that trials of Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and over 400 others breach fair‑trial standards, citing limited evidence access and simultaneous courtdates 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/council-of-europe-warns-turkey-over-fairtrial-rights-in-istanbul-mayors-case ### 2026-07-10: Tanju Özcan vows to continue legal fight after court extends detention Former Bolu mayor Tanju Özcan stays detained after court upheld his custody; he announced on social media he will keep fighting his legal case, thanking supporters. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tanju-zcan-vows-to-continue-legal-fight-after-court-extends-detention ### 2026-07-10: Turkey Bar Association President calls for fair trial in Ekrem İmamoğlu case Turkey Bar Association chief Erinç Sağkan urged a fair trial for detained Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, while lawyer Hüseyin Ersöz appealed court‑imposed defence‑time limits in the sprawling İBB case. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-bar-association-president-calls-for-fair-trial-in-ekrem-imamolu-case ### 2026-07-10: Police seize CHP Istanbul headquarters, remove İmamoğlu poster and install Kılıçdaroğlu display Police entered CHP Istanbul headquarters, removed Ekrem İmamoğlu’s poster, installed Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu’s image, and imposed a blockade amid heated party tensions. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/police-blockade-chp-istanbul-headquarters-amid-poster-clash ### 2026-07-09: Balçova municipality appoints Selahattin Yıldız as interim mayor Balçova council appointed Selahattin Yıldız as interim mayor after the suspension of Onur Yiğit amid a corruption probe; Yıldız won 20 votes and vowed to serve the district. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/balova-municipality-appoints-selahattin-yldz-as-interim-mayor ### 2026-07-09: Aziz İhsan Aktaş trial hearing postponed to July 13 Turkey’s Aziz İhsan Aktaş crime‑organization trial, involving 200 defendants and suspended mayors, was delayed to July 13 after lawyers cited insufficient evidence and requested release. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aziz-ihsan-akta-crime-ring-trial-continues-in-istanbul ### 2026-07-08: Turkish prosecutor probes illegal recordings of Istanbul mayor trial Turkish prosecutors launch a probe into illegal recordings of the İBB corruption trial in Silivri, while CHP’s Özgür Özel denounces the hearing as politically motivated. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-prosecutor-probes-illegal-recordings-of-istanbul-mayor-trial ### 2026-07-08: Beyoğlu Mayor İnan Güney released after court orders his and five others’ freedom A Turkish court freed Beyoğlu Mayor İnan Güney and five others, ending his administrative detention in a high‑profile corruption probe. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/beyolu-mayor-inan-gney-released-after-court-orders-his-and-five-others-freedom ### 2026-07-08: Ekrem İmamoğlu faces court hearing clash and party poster dispute in Turkey Ekrem İmamoğlu was expelled from a Silivri court hearing after a dispute, then issued a statement asserting justice belongs to the people, while supporters re‑hung his poster at CHP’s Istanbul office amid a st‑ 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-faces-court-hearing-clash-and-party-poster-dispute-in-turkey ### 2026-07-08: Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's Court Hearing Draws International Condemnation Amid NATO Summit Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu’s corruption trial, with a potential 2,000‑year sentence, sparked international criticism as he was expelled from court during a NATO summit, amid claims of fair‑trial violations. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkeys-opposition-mayor-imamoglu-faces-corruption-trial-as-erdogan-hosts-nato-summit ### 2026-07-08: Bolu Mayor Tanju Özcan faces trial over bribery and corruption charges Former Bolu mayor Tanju Özcan and 18 co‑defendants face trial for bribery, attempted obstruction and qualified fraud; prosecutors seek continued detention for Özcan, while a council member may be released under 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bolu-court-hears-kurban-donors-in-corruption-case-none-file-complaints ### 2026-07-08: Ekrem İmamoğlu expelled from Istanbul courtroom after heated exchange Ekrem İmamoğlu was expelled from the Istanbul 40th Heavy Penal Court after telling the judge he would prosecute the indictment authors; the judge warned, “You are here to be tried, not to judge.” 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-expelled-from-istanbul-courtroom-after-heated-exchange ### 2026-07-07: Istanbul trial of Fatih Keleş proceeds in Ekrem İmamoğlu cash scandal Fatih Keleş, former adviser to Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, faced cross‑examination over alleged cash transfers tied to the CHP building purchase; he denied wrongdoing as the trial continues. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-trial-of-fatih-kele-proceeds-in-ekrem-imamolu-cash-scandal ### 2026-07-06: Bolu Mayor Tanju Özcan on trial for abuse of power and bribery Bolu mayor Tanju Özcan, suspended from office, is on trial with 18 others on abuse of power, bribery and fraud charges linked to alleged misuse of Kurban donations, forced ad contracts and a concrete‑plantprice 17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bolu-municipality-officials-face-bribery-trial-in-court ### 2026-07-06: Ekrem İmamoğlu’s corruption trial enters 64th hearing Ekrem İmamoğlu’s corruption trial reaches its 64th hearing; prosecutors seek decades‑long sentences while his defense claims lack of evidence and he has been repeatedly barred from the courtroom. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolus-istanbul-trial-enters-62nd63rd-hearing ### 2026-07-05: EU Parliament reporter Amor to attend Ekrem Imamoglu's trial in Istanbul EU Parliament rapporteur Nacho Sánchez Amor will attend Ekrem İmamoğlu’s Istanbul trial in early July, calling it a key test of Turkey’s rule of law and urging EU monitoring. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-parliament-reporter-amor-to-attend-ekrem-imamoglus-trial-in-istanbul ### 2026-07-04: CHP picks deputy mayors in Balçova and Seferihisar districts of İzmir, Turkey CHP chose deputy mayors for Balçova and Seferihisar after the incumbents were suspended; Selahattin Yıldız and Fuat Gümüş were selected in July 2026 meetings. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chp-picks-deputy-mayors-in-balova-and-seferihisar-districts-of-izmir-turkey ### 2026-07-04: İmamoğlu’s detention upheld as he faces three simultaneous trials in Turkey İmamoğlu remains detained as Turkish courts keep him in custody for three high‑profile cases – municipal corruption, political espionage and a diploma falsification – with hearings set for September and a Dec ‑ 27 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chp-leader-zgr-zel-meets-detained-mayor-ekrem-imamolu-in-silivri-prison ### 2026-07-03: Balçova Mayor Onur Yiğit Removed, Deputy Election Scheduled for July 10 Turkey’s Interior Ministry suspended Balçova mayor Onur Yiğit over bribery charges and set a mayor‑deputy election for 10 July 2026. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/balova-mayor-onur-yiit-removed-deputy-election-scheduled-for-july-10 ### 2026-07-03: Balçova Mayor Onur Yiğit Suspended Amid Bribery Probe Balçova Mayor Onur Yiğit was placed under house arrest and suspended by Turkey's interior ministry over a bribery probe linked to the 2024 local elections; a July 10 council vote will select an acting mayor. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/balova-mayor-onur-yiit-suspended-amid-bribery-probe ### 2026-07-03: Bolu Mayor Tanju Özcan and 18 Officials Trialed for Corruption Mayor Tanju Özcan and 18 other Bolu officials began trial on extortion, bribery and fraud charges, with sentences sought up to 263 years. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ankaya-exofficial-sadk-can-kksal-detained-in-drug-investigation ### 2026-07-03: Turkey raids municipal officials in Bolu and Beykoz over embezzlement and bribery Turkish authorities arrested officials in Bolu and Beykoz municipalities on embezzlement, money‑laundering and bribery charges, expanding an ongoing anti‑corruption push. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-raids-municipal-officials-in-bolu-and-beykoz-over-embezzlement-and-bribery ### 2026-07-02: Kuşadası cooperative leaders arrested in Turkey corruption probe Three Kuşadası cooperative officials, including president Hüsnü Öten, were arrested on corruption and money‑laundering charges after a June 30 raid. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kuadas-cooperative-leaders-arrested-in-turkey-corruption-probe ### 2026-07-02: Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu Removed from Courtroom During İBB Trial Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu was expelled from the 61st İBB trial hearing after confronting the judge over a July 9 deadline; the judge cited criminal procedure rules, halting the session. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-ekrem-imamolu-removed-from-courtroom-during-ibb-trial ### 2026-06-30: Ekrem İmamoğlu's Istanbul Trial Extends Amid Court Relocation and Defense Delays Ekrem İmamoğlu's corruption trial in Istanbul persists after court relocation and multiple defence dates; co‑defendant Murat Ongun testifies, evading rent queries and denying auction instructions. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/murat-ongun-declines-to-reveal-rent-and-salary-in-istanbul-mayor-corruption-trial ### 2026-06-29: Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s corruption trial reaches 59th day The Istanbul Mayor’s corruption case entered its 59th hearing, involving 414 defendants and scheduling the mayor’s defense for early July amid claims of political bias and massive prison demands. 20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-municipal-officials-face-courtroom-defenses-in-multiple-corruption-trials ### 2026-06-28: Turkish MP Sezgin Tanrıkulu decries lack of judicial independence after İzmir prison visits MP Sezgin Tanrıkulu visited seven İzmir prisons, saying Turkey’s judiciary lacks independence, the rule of law is absent, and citizens have lost trust, urging a solution. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chp-izmir-officials-visit-prisons-and-buca-cemevi-raise-justice-and-unity-concerns ### 2026-06-28: Seferihisar Mayor İsmail Yetişkin Detained in Major Bribery Probe Involving Balçova Mayor Seferihisar Mayor İsmail Yetişkin and others were detained in a bribery probe that also involved Balçova Mayor Onur Yiğit, with several officials arrested and some released under judicial control. 28 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/balova-mayor-onur-yiit-released-on-judicial-control-after-corruption-probe ### 2026-06-26: Balçova Mayor Onur Yiğit Released and Placed Under Judicial Control Amid Bribery Probe Balçova Mayor Onur Yiğit was released under judicial control and later placed under house arrest amid a bribery probe involving Seferihisar officials; his mother was also freed. 22 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkeys-chp-chief-zgr-zel-linked-to-alleged-10-million-helicopter-and-luxury-car-offers ### 2026-06-26: Mayor İsmail Yetişkin's health at risk during detention Mayor İsmail Yetişkin, detained on 25 June, faces life‑threatening health risks as his required dialysis treatment may be disrupted, lawyer warns of serious complications. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mayor-ismail-yetikins-health-at-risk-during-detention ### 2026-06-26: Seferihisar Mayor Ismail Yetişkin Detained Amid Corruption Probe, Nurse Reports Ongoing Home Dialysis Seferihisar Mayor Ismail Yetişkin, detained in a corruption probe, suffers chronic illnesses and relies on home dialysis; authorities have also arrested the municipal planning director and 24 others. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seferihisar-mayor-ismail-yetikin-detained-amid-corruption-probe-nurse-reports-ongoing-home-dialysis ### 2026-06-25: CHP officials' relatives detained in Izmir corruption probe Turkish raids detain 26 people in an Izmir corruption probe linking cash transfers to CHP MP Veli Ağbaba, with relatives of local mayors and council member Doğuş Bayır arrested; officials claim the moves are a 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-probes-chp-mp-veli-ababa-in-candidate-bribes-scandal ### 2026-06-24: Istanbul Municipality Deputy Secretary Gürkan Akgün Defends Actions in Imamoğlu Trial Gürkan Akgün, Istanbul municipality deputy secretary, defended his actions at the 57th hearing of the Imamoğlu trial, denying corruption claims; the court adjourned the case to 29 June. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-municipality-deputy-secretary-grkan-akgn-defends-actions-in-imamolu-trial ### 2026-06-24: Izmir Mayors Onur Yiğit and İsmail Yetişkin Detained On 25 June 2026, İzmir’s Balçova mayor Onur Yiğit and Seferihisar mayor İsmail Yetişkin were detained by public prosecutors, with 24 arrests in total. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/izmir-mayors-onur-yiit-and-ismail-yetikin-detained ### 2026-06-23: Ekrem İmamoğlu trial proceeds amid denial of charges and torture claims Istanbul’s trial of Ekrem İmamoğlu’s alleged criminal organization continues, with the former mayor alleging torture and municipal official Kağan Sürmegöz denying involvement. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-trial-proceeds-amid-denial-of-charges-and-torture-claims ### 2026-06-23: Izmir Mayors Yetişkin and Yiğit Detained in Corruption Probe Izmir prosecutors detained 24 people, including CHP mayors İsmail Yetişkin and Onur Yiğit, over alleged bribery, construction‑permit fraud and candidate‑funding schemes ahead of local elections; opposition dens 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/efeler-municipalitys-social-projects-win-approval-from-residents ### 2026-06-23: Antalya authorities detain offenders and seize assets in beggar crackdown and fraud bust Antalya police cracked down on beggars in Aksu, fining 18 offenders, and busted a fraud ring targeting Europeans, arresting 13 suspects and seizing assets worth over 50 million TL. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/antalya-authorities-detain-offenders-and-seize-assets-in-beggar-crackdown-and-fraud-bust ### 2026-06-22: Istanbul mayor İmamoğlu condemns alleged torture in İBB trial Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu warned of alleged torture of Erhan Karaal and intimidation of families during the İBB trial, while defendant Güldem Şık denied any role in municipal contracts. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-imamolu-condemns-alleged-torture-in-ibb-trial ### 2026-06-20: Seferihisar Deputy Mayor Gökhan Pehlivan Detained in Corruption Probe Seferihisar Deputy Mayor Gökhan Pehlivan was arrested along with seven others in a municipal probe; Mayor İsmail Yetişkin appealed for presumption of innocence and fair trial. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seferihisar-deputy-mayor-gkhan-pehlivan-detained-in-corruption-probe ### 2026-06-19: Muğla fraud crackdown nets six arrests in 142‑million‑lira scheme Six people arrested and eight placed under judicial control after a Turkish raid uncovered a 142 million‑lira fraud using fake investment promises, seizing weapons, cash, property and crypto assets. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-clamps-down-on-municipal-corruption-with-arrests-in-seferihisar-and-silifke ### 2026-06-18: Seferihisar Municipality bribery probe leads to multiple arrests A coordinated probe into Seferihisar Municipality uncovered a 6 million‑TL bribery scheme, leading to the detention of deputy mayor Gökhan Pehlivan and the arrest of the former Güzelbahçe mayor’s spouse, among 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-detains-officials-in-seferihisar-municipal-corruption-probe ### 2026-06-18: Seyhan Mayor Oya Tekin Denies Ties to Aziz Ihsan Aktaş in Bribery Trial Suspended Seyhan mayor Oya Tekin denied any business relationship with Aziz Ihsan Aktaş during a bribery trial, as prosecutors seek 4‑12 years imprisonment. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seyhan-mayor-oya-tekin-denies-ties-to-aziz-ihsan-akta-in-bribery-trial ### 2026-06-18: Nine İBB defendants released as Istanbul mayoral trial reaches 53rd day On day 53 of the İstanbul mayoral İBB trial, the court continued hearings and ordered the release of nine detained officials from Silivri prison. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nine-ibb-defendants-released-as-istanbul-mayoral-trial-reaches-53rd-day ### 2026-06-17: Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu faces criminal‑organization trial Istanbul's 52nd hearing in the case accusing Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu of leading a criminal organization saw key defendants deny involvement, with the court postponing further proceedings. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-ekrem-imamolu-faces-criminalorganization-trial ### 2026-06-17: Turkey conducts widespread municipal bribery raids, dozens detained Turkish prosecutors raided multiple municipalities – Seferihisar, Adalar, Silifke and Beylikdüzü – detaining dozens of officials over alleged bribes and illegal permits worth millions of lira. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-organized-crime-trial-defendant-metin-bal-denies-charges ### 2026-06-17: İzmir Menderes Municipality Accused of $250k and €400k Bribery Demands Tourist businessman Yakup Toprak alleges the İzmir Menderes municipality demanded $250,000 and €400,000 in bribes for a hotel licence and has filed criminal complaints against two mayors. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/izmir-menderes-municipality-accused-of-250k-and-400k-bribery-demands ### 2026-06-17: Adalar District Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat Arrested in Bribery Probe Istanbul's Adalar mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat and 40 officials were arrested in a bribery probe over illegal permits in historic sites, following raids at 90 locations. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seferihisar-municipality-officials-detained-in-bribery-sweep ### 2026-06-16: Turkey's Ekrem İmamoğlu Court Hearing and Silivri Mayor Suspension Ekrem İmamoğlu attended his Silivri court hearing, receiving a greeting from Trabzon mayor, while Silivri mayor Bora Balcıoğlu was suspended pending investigation into organized crime and bribery. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkeys-ekrem-imamolu-court-hearing-and-silivri-mayor-suspension ### 2026-06-16: Silivri Mayor Balcıoğlu Removed; Deputy Mayor Election Set for June 20 Silivri Mayor Bora Balcıoğlu was arrested on June 15 and removed on June 16. The municipal council will elect a deputy mayor on June 20 to run the city during the investigation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/silivri-mayor-balcolu-removed-deputy-mayor-election-set-for-june-20 ### 2026-06-16: Istanbul municipal officials face organized‑crime trial Istanbul's Heavy Criminal Court hears a 53‑day organized‑crime trial of about 200 municipal officials, including mayors, with testimonies from Buğra Gökce and Celal Tekin. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-faces-multiple-legal-challenges-in-istanbul ### 2026-06-16: İzmir cooperative scandal trial continues with mayoral figures Soyer and Kaya defiant İzmir’s İZBETON fraud case proceeds with former mayor Soyer, CHP leader Aslanoğlu and ex‑manager Kaya denying charges; court delays hearing, mayor Tugay rebukes Kaya’s comments. 13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-courts-intervene-in-zile-municipal-election-and-hear-adana-mayors-procurement-case ### 2026-06-16: Turkey probes mayor and İzmir Bar Association in anti‑corruption raids Turkish prosecutors detained 27 suspects in a mayor‑linked construction fraud probe and launched an investigation into İzmir Bar Association leaders, accusing authorities of using legal actions to suppress the 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-probes-mayor-and-izmir-bar-association-in-anticorruption-raids ### 2026-06-16: Antalya Probe Leads to 10 New Arrests in Municipal Procurement Corruption Antalya prosecutors expanded a corruption probe into ANSET‑linked tenders, detaining ten more people, including relatives of former municipal secretary, after earlier raids uncovered over 113 million lira in损失. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/antalya-probe-leads-to-10-new-arrests-in-municipal-procurement-corruption ### 2026-06-15: Turkey's İmamoğlu faces organized‑crime trial over alleged 160 bn lira damages Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and other officials face trial for a suspected criminal organization accused of causing 160 bn lira in losses and facing up to 2,430 years in prison. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-officials-face-prison-terms-in-mula-socialmedia-case-and-imamolu-criminalorganization-trial ### 2026-06-15: Ekrem İmamoğlu urges faster justice as Istanbul municipal corruption trial reaches 50th day The 50th hearing of Istanbul’s massive municipal corruption trial sees 68 detainees, accusations of 161 bn lira fraud, and mayor İmamoğlu demanding Justice Ministry action on alleged abuses and parole reviews. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-ekrem-imamolu-calls-for-prisoner-release-on-50th-day-of-ibb-corruption-trial ### 2026-06-15: Silivri Mayor Bora Balcıoğlu arrested in corruption probe Silivri mayor Bora Balcıoğlu and 10‑11 other officials were arrested in a corruption probe that uncovered alleged bribery, money‑laundering and a 21 million‑lira public loss; a by‑election is set for 20 June. 15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bursa-corruption-probe-seeks-massive-prison-terms-for-mustafa-bozbey-and-turgay-erdem ### 2026-06-14: CHP faces internal crisis as mayors are arrested and leaders clash over 'mutual veto CHP is in crisis as mayor Bora Balcıoğlu is arrested, Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu warns of a blocked congress, Kılıçdaroğlu pledges support, and the party forms a commission to probe alleged corruption. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kemal-kldarolu-reaches-out-to-detained-silivri-mayors-family-and-meets-jailed-journalist ### 2026-06-12: Samsun leaders confront citizen scrutiny and fraud arrests Samsun’s Şenol Kul held a public Q&A on local issues, while police arrested three over a charity‑box scam that misused mayor Halit Doğan’s name, exposing fraud worth 310,000 lira. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/samsun-leaders-confront-citizen-scrutiny-and-fraud-arrests ### 2026-06-12: Turkish Mayor Detained in Broad Crackdown on Opposition Leaders Turkish prosecutors detained Silivri mayor Bora Balcıoğlu and 18 others on corruption charges, part of a wider crackdown on CHP officials after the party’s 2024 local election wins, which the opposition says is 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-mayor-detained-in-broad-crackdown-on-opposition-leaders ### 2026-06-12: Silivri Mayor Bora Balcıoğlu detained in Turkish municipal corruption probe Police detained Silivri mayor Bora Balcıoğlu and 16 others in a corruption probe alleging municipal abuse, a 21.5 M TL loss, and organized crime charges; CHP sent a delegation to monitor the case. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/silivri-municipality-operation-arrests-mayor-and-officials-over-alleged-corruption ### 2026-06-12: Mustafa Bozbey faces up to 402‑year prison term in massive Bursa corruption case Turkish prosecutors allege Mustafa Bozbey led a 15.9 bn TL corruption ring in Bursa, seeking a 402‑year sentence; 39 people, 7 firms, 213 properties tied to VEREV İnşaat and SERES Gayrimenkul. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mustafa-bozbey-faces-up-to-402year-prison-term-in-massive-bursa-corruption-case ### 2026-06-11: Hüseyin Benzer chosen as Buca municipality deputy mayor After mayor Görkem Duman was arrested, Buca council elected CHP's Hüseyin Benzer as deputy mayor in a three‑round vote, defeating AK Party's Veli Balyemez 25‑17. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/buca-selects-veli-balyemez-as-mayoral-deputy-amid-chp-talks ### 2026-06-11: Turkish mayor Özlem Çerçioğlu acquitted as Istanbul mayoral trial continues Mayor Özlem Çerçioğlu was acquitted of corruption charges, while the Istanbul mayoral trial involving Ekrem İmamoğlu entered its 49th hearing with multiple defendants awaiting detention review. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-mayor-zlem-eriolu-acquitted-as-istanbul-mayoral-trial-continues ### 2026-06-10: Veli Balyemez Named Candidate for Buca Mayor Deputy Election Veli Balyemez is the Cumhur İttifakı candidate for Buca’s mayor‑deputy election on 12 June, following the removal of former mayor Görkem Duman amid a corruption probe. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/veli-balyemez-named-candidate-for-buca-mayor-deputy-election ### 2026-06-10: Turkish anti‑corruption probes freeze assets of Buca mayor and seek decades‑long sentences for Bursa mayor Corruption probes in Turkey have frozen Buca mayor’s assets and filed a massive indictment seeking centuries‑long prison terms for Bursa mayor and associates. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-anticorruption-probes-freeze-assets-of-buca-mayor-and-seek-decadeslong-sentences-for-bursa-m ### 2026-06-09: Antalya SGK Director Arrested in Bribery Probe Antalya SGK director Mehmet Tanrıöver and associates were arrested after a bribery probe sparked by a complaint from former Antalyaspor president, involving multi‑million TL cash payments. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/antalya-sgk-director-arrested-in-bribery-probe ### 2026-06-09: Turkish police raid Buca municipality officials and Barış Boyun crime network Turkish prosecutors appealed the release of 12 suspects from a Buca municipality raid that arrested the mayor and others for bribery, while a separate sweep on the Barış Boyun network across seven provinces led 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-police-raid-buca-municipality-officials-and-bar-boyun-crime-network ### 2026-06-09: Ekrem İmamoğlu blocked by gendarmerie during Istanbul mayor trial hearing During the 47th hearing of Ekrem İmamoğlu’s mayoral trial at Silivri Prison, he was blocked by a gendarmerie officer, sparking a dispute; prosecutors later denied any restriction on his prison visits and opened 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolu-blocked-by-gendarmerie-during-istanbul-mayor-trial-hearing ### 2026-06-08: Turkish Court Merges Six Officials' Trial with Ferdi Zeyrek Death Case Turkish court merged the trial of six municipal officials with the case over former mayor Ferdi Zeyrek’s fatal electric shock, citing negligent installation and pending expert reports. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-court-merges-six-officials-trial-with-ferdi-zeyrek-death-case ### 2026-06-08: Keskin Mayor Ekmel Cönger Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Bribery Turkey’s Keskin mayor Ekmel Cönger was sentenced to over five years in prison and barred from certain rights after a court found him guilty of bribery, alongside contractor M.Y. who received a six‑year term. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/keskin-mayor-ekmel-cnger-sentenced-to-5-years-in-prison-for-bribery ### 2026-06-08: Buca Mayor Görkem Duman Removed from Office in Corruption Probe A corruption probe in İzmir led to the arrest of Buca mayor Görkem Duman and his removal from office, with charges of forming a criminal organization, bribery and embezzlement against him and other officials. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/buca-mayor-grkem-duman-removed-from-office-in-corruption-probe ### 2026-06-07: Buca (Turkey) to elect mayoral deputy on 12 June after mayor's removal Buca will hold a mayoral‑deputy election on 12 June 2026 after the mayor’s removal following a corruption probe; the council, led by CHP, will vote in an extraordinary meeting. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/akehir-and-akyaka-elect-new-muhtars-third-female-muhtar-in-akehir ### 2026-06-07: Istanbul municipal trial continues amid prisoner testimonies The Istanbul municipal trial entered its 46th day, with detainee Serkan Öztürk rejecting statements and demanding release, while former Media AŞ chair Murat Ongun’s prison notes, including a joke about awashing 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-municipal-trial-continues-amid-prisoner-testimonies ### 2026-06-06: Turkey's Buca Municipality Corruption Probe Results in 42 Arrests A raid on Buca Municipality in Turkey led to 42 arrests, including mayor Görkem Duman, over alleged bribery and fund misuse; CHP leader Çağatay Güç condemned the fallout. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkeys-buca-municipality-corruption-probe-results-in-42-arrests ### 2026-06-05: Turkey arrests 42 officials in Buca municipal corruption probe Turkish court detains 42, including Buca mayor Görkem Duman, in a corruption probe; 12 released under judicial control. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-arrests-42-officials-in-buca-municipal-corruption-probe ### 2026-06-05: Buca Mayor Görkem Duman Sent to Prison in Turkey Corruption Probe Turkey’s İzmir prosecutors raided Buca municipality, arresting mayor Görkem Duman, former mayor Erhan Kılıç and others for a bribery scheme that legitimised illegal villas built after a 2023 forest fire. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/buca-mayor-grkem-duman-sent-to-prison-amid-massive-corruption-crackdown ### 2026-06-05: Turkish Court Extends Detention of Beykoz Mayor Alaattin Köseler and Two Others Istanbul’s 17th Heavy Criminal Court kept Beykoz mayor Alaattin Köseler, Veli Gümüş and Uğur İnci in detention, while granting Havva Dindar conditional release under judicial control; next hearing set for 13 J 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-court-extends-detention-of-beykoz-mayor-alaattin-kseler-and-two-others ### 2026-06-05: Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu’s Defamation Trial Adjourned Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu’s defamation case over 2022 remarks at a Tuzla plant opening was heard via video link and postponed to Sept. 11, with a possible 2‑4‑year sentence. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/istanbul-mayor-ekrem-imamolus-defamation-trial-adjourned ### 2026-06-05: Ekrem İmamoğlu’s defamation trial postponed to Sept 11 Ekrem İmamoğlu’s defamation case, stemming from alleged insults to Şadi Yazıcı, was delayed to Sept 11 after he claimed a vehicle breakdown prevented his physical appearance in court. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolus-defamation-trial-postponed-to-sept-11 ### 2026-06-04: Ekrem İmamoğlu’s allies gather in Silivri, demand justice Supporters, including CHP deputies, rallied in Silivri, with Dilek İmamoğlu urging the Court of Cassation to protect justice and declaring Ekrem İmamoğlu innocent. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolus-allies-gather-in-silivri-demand-justice ### 2026-06-04: Turkish Mayor Muhittin Böcek Claims He Handed 950k Euros to Late Manisa Mayor Ferdi Zeyrek Antalya mayor Muhittin Böcek, detained in a graft probe, claimed he gave 950,000 euros to late Manisa mayor Ferdi Zeyrek on CHP chief Özgür Özel’s orders, sparking accusations and calls for a homicide inquiry. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkeys-antalya-mayor-muhittin-bcek-arrested-over-alleged-950000euro-bribe ### 2026-06-03: Ekrem İmamoğlu’s trial sees birthday celebration and contested court transport On the 44th day of his trial, Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s birthday was celebrated in court, while his transport from prison was sent back, leading him to join remotely and accuse authorities of psychological torture 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ekrem-imamolus-trial-sees-birthday-celebration-and-contested-court-transport --- Cite as: Verdicts and ongoing hearings in Turkish municipal trial. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-mayoral-corruption-and-politicalespionage-probes-expand-ending-with-the-trial-of-former-ista