Turkish authorities conduct raid on Bakirkoy municipality amid corruption investigation

On the morning of October 27, 2026, Turkish authorities launched a major police operation in the Bakirkoy district of Istanbul. The investigation, led by the local prosecutor's office, focuses on alleged irregularities in municipal tenders and business licensing procedures conducted between 2024 and 2026. Authorities examined 42 specific tender files, citing potential financial losses to the public and allegations of illicit demands for money from business owners.

Legal proceedings were initiated against 68 individuals. While reports on the exact number of detainees vary, one source states 37 people are in custody, while another reports 58 detainees, including five deputy mayors and two members of the municipal council. The operation coincides with reports that the municipal leadership of Bakirkoy was preparing to depart from the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) to join the newly formed YENI Party, founded by Ozgur Ozel with the support of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to process the evidence gathered from the municipal offices.