21.04.2026 11:10
In the context of bribery and organized crime allegations during the previous administration of Manavgat Municipality, 21 suspects were detained. It was stated that among the suspects were municipal employees, tourism professionals, businesspeople, and contractors.
In Antalya, 21 more suspects were detained in relation to the allegations of "bribery," "embezzlement," and "establishing an organization for the purpose of committing crimes" during the previous administration of the Manavgat Municipality.
FORMER MAYOR ŞÜKRÜ SÖZEN AND HIS BROTHER ARE IN CUSTODY Within the scope of the investigation conducted under the coordination of the Manavgat Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, a detention order was issued for 21 suspects, including former Manavgat Mayor Şükrü Sözen and his brother Fatih Sözen, who are currently in custody. The Provincial Gendarmerie Command's Smuggling and Organized Crime Fighting teams detained 21 suspects during an operation carried out at the identified addresses.
It was stated that among the suspects were municipal employees, tourism professionals, businesspeople, and contractors.
Former Manavgat Mayor Şükrü Sözen who was arrested A LARGE AMOUNT OF MONEY WAS SEIZED AT THEIR HOMES Former Manavgat Mayor Şükrü Sözen and his brother Fatih Sözen were arrested on September 11, 2025, as part of an investigation into charges of "bribery," "embezzlement," "manipulating a tender," "extortion," "laundering assets derived from crime," and "establishing an organization for the purpose of committing crimes." It was reported that a large amount of money and valuable items were seized during a search conducted at the Sözen brothers' homes.
In ongoing operations, 8 more suspects, including former deputy mayors B.Ö. and L.A., were also arrested. In another operation conducted on December 2, 2025, 19 suspects were detained, 3 of whom were arrested, and on March 10, 12 of the 40 suspects detained were arrested.
After some of the suspects were released to be tried without detention, the number of those in custody became 11.
On the other hand, in another investigation targeting the Manavgat Municipality, the trial of 43 defendants, including 5 in custody, continues, among whom is Niyazi Nefi Kara, who was arrested and suspended from duty while serving as mayor.