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A corruption investigation involving the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) has led to detention orders for 22 individuals, including Taner Cetin, Head of the IBB’s Department of Press and Public Relations.
The ongoing investigation centers around alleged misconduct connected to suspending and detaining former Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.
Authorities claim that Taner Cetin has maintained close ties with Imamoglu since the latter’s time as mayor of Beylikduzu and is suspected of engaging in irregular activities involving Medya S.A. and Kultur S.A...., both municipal subsidiaries under the supervision of Murat Ongun, Chairman of Medya S.A.
According to the allegations, Cetin is accused of manipulating public tenders to favor certain companies with whom he had close ties. These companies allegedly provided him with illicit financial benefits, which were then used to acquire various assets.
A report by Türkiye’s Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) suggests that payments for these assets were made directly by the companies that received contracts from Medya S.A. and Kultur S.A.
Authorities claim that funds were also transferred from these firms to other staff members of Medya S.A. and Kultur S.A.
As part of the probe, Turkish prosecutors have issued detention orders for 22 individuals, including municipal employees and company representatives, believed to be involved in the alleged bribery and rigged procurement processes.
The investigation is underway.
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