22.06.2026 10:30
In the bribery and corruption investigation against the Adalar Municipality, 39 suspects, including Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat, have been referred to the courthouse. The investigation examines allegations of illegal transactions in protected areas, tolerance of unlicensed businesses, and bribery in certain operations. A decision on the suspects is pending after prosecutorial questioning.
The judicial process for the suspects detained in the bribery and corruption investigation launched by the Istanbul Anatolian Republic Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against the Adalar Municipality has begun. A total of 39 people, including Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat, were referred to the Anatolian Courthouse after completing their procedures at the police station.
Within the scope of the investigation, detention orders had previously been issued for 47 individuals, including Mayor Akpolat, two deputy mayors, and municipal employees. Simultaneous operations were conducted in Kocaeli, Rize, and Sivas, centered in Istanbul, with raids on numerous addresses.
FILE INCLUDES ALLEGATIONS OF BRIBERY AND ILLEGAL PERMITS
The investigation is reported to have been initiated based on tip-offs regarding transactions carried out in natural and archaeological protected areas in Adalar. According to allegations, extensive interventions on some historical buildings were permitted under the guise of "minor repairs," unlicensed businesses were allowed to operate, and convenience was provided in exchange for bribes in certain transactions.
The file also includes allegations that fines imposed on illegal structures and unlicensed businesses were unlawfully reduced and official documents were altered following various meetings.
INVESTIGATION ON MULTIPLE CHARGES
In the investigation conducted by the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, it has been stated that suspects are being processed on charges of "bribery," "extortion," "forgery of official documents," "establishing and managing an organization to commit a crime," "violation of the Law on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets," and "misconduct in office."
While 3 of the 42 detained individuals were released by the prosecutor's order, the remaining 39 suspects were sent to the courthouse. The decision regarding the suspects following questioning by the prosecutor and judge is expected to be clarified during the day.