Istanbul municipality officials arrested in corruption probe

Turkish authorities have arrested Ali Ercan Akpolat, the mayor of the Adalar municipality, along with 34 other suspects, as part of a corruption and bribery investigation linked to the issuance of construction permits and licenses, officials said.

The investigation was launched by the Anatolia Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office in Istanbul following allegations that municipal officials issued permits in the Princes’ Islands—administered by the Adalar municipality—in exchange for bribes, despite the area’s protected status as a natural and archaeological site, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media. 

Authorities issued arrest warrants for 47 suspects in total. Police operations were carried out across Istanbul, Kocaeli, Sivas, and Rize provinces, resulting in the detention of 42 individuals.

Following initial processing, three suspects were released under prosecutorial orders. The remaining suspects were brought before a court for review.

After evaluating the evidence, the court ordered the remand in custody of 35 individuals, including Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat and two deputy mayors.

By Sabina Mammadli