19.06.2026 12:11
In the investigation conducted against the Adalar Municipality, it was alleged that permits for "simple repairs" were granted to historical buildings in exchange for bribes, licenses were issued for unlicensed businesses in return for money, and fines imposed on illegal structures were reduced in exchange for bribes. During operations carried out in four provinces centered in Istanbul, 41 suspects, including Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat, were detained, while the Adalar Municipality issued a statement emphasizing the presumption of innocence and reported that services continue uninterrupted.
The details of the investigation conducted by the Istanbul Anatolian Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against the Adalar Municipality have emerged. It was reported that within the scope of the investigation, teams from the Istanbul Provincial Police Department's Financial Crimes Branch conducted technical and financial examinations, analyzed MASAK data, HTS and base station records, and also took witness statements.
In the studies conducted, it was alleged that it was determined that permits were granted for major renovations and construction activities on historical buildings in the Adalar region, which has natural and archaeological site status, under the guise of "simple repair" in exchange for bribes. Additionally, it was claimed that licenses were issued for unlicensed businesses in exchange for money, or these businesses were turned a blind eye to.
"THEY ISSUED PENALTIES AND INCLUDED THEM IN THE SYSTEM" CLAIM
According to findings in the investigation file, it was alleged that high amounts of fines were imposed on unlicensed businesses and illegal structures, and then the business owners were included in the system.
According to the claims, bribe negotiations were subsequently held in exchange for reducing the penalty amounts. It was alleged that the penalties of those who agreed to pay bribes were reduced through unauthorized changes in documents, and undue benefits were obtained through this method.
The file also included allegations that some individuals seeking licenses from the municipality were directed to architects connected to municipal officials, that license procedures were expedited through these individuals, and that unauthorized licenses were issued.
It was stated that so far, a total of 47 suspects are considered to have been involved in crimes across 40 separate actions in the investigation.
41 PEOPLE DETAINED
Based on the evidence obtained, simultaneous operations were carried out in Kocaeli, Rize, and Sivas, centered in Istanbul. In raids conducted at a total of 90 addresses, 41 suspects, including Adalar Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat, were detained. Numerous digital materials were also seized in the operations. It was learned that efforts to capture fugitive suspects are ongoing.
STATEMENT FROM ADALAR MUNICIPALITY
Following the operation, Adalar Municipality issued a written statement. In the statement, it was noted that the process regarding Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat, deputy mayors, and council members is being closely monitored, and the principle of presumption of innocence was emphasized.
In the municipal statement, it was said, "We wish to remind the public that during the ongoing process regarding our Mayor and Deputy Mayors, the presumption of innocence, one of the fundamental principles of the rule of law, is essential. While respecting the jurisdiction and independence of the judicial authorities, our greatest expectation is that the process is conducted fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the universal principles of law."
The statement also indicated that evaluations made without a final court decision should not be trusted, and that municipal services continue uninterrupted.
The municipality emphasized that all units are at their posts and that there is no disruption in citizens' access to services. The statement requested that the public only consider announcements made through the municipality's official channels and authorized legal representatives.
CONTINUATION OF SERVICES EMPHASIZED
In the statement from Adalar Municipality, it was noted that services are being carried out with a populist, social, and participatory municipal approach, and that the legal process is being followed with common sense and care.