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The corruption investigation involving the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) has intensified following multiple coordinated police operations and arrests.
The probe, which became public in March 2025 with the detention of then-Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, has since expanded through several phases, revealing alleged irregularities primarily related to municipal tenders and misuse of authority within IBB's subsidiaries. So far, over 50 individuals—including senior officials and business figures—have been detained or arrested in connection with the case.
The accusations against Imamoglu include the questionable acquisition of three villas in one of Istanbul's prime locations by his family’s construction company, in which he owns 60% of the shares. According to official documents, a close business associate of Imamoglu purchased the villas on his behalf and transferred the property to Imamoglu's company after three years at a low price.
The investigation initially focused on allegations of bid rigging, bribery, terrorism and illegal handling of personal data within IBB-affiliated companies such as Media SA and Kultur SA. Authorities claim that contracts were manipulated to favor companies linked to certain municipal officials in exchange for kickbacks.
Additionally, personal data of Istanbul residents were reportedly obtained unlawfully and exploited in organized criminal activities within the municipality.
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The investigation first gained public attention on March 19, when Imamoglu was detained on charges that bid rigging, organized crime, bribery, and illegal data processing, among others. Following his arrest, Imamoglu was imprisoned in Silivri Prison. This marked the beginning of a wider crackdown targeting IBB’s management and associated businesspeople.
The second wave of operations took place on April 26, resulting in 52 additional detentions, of whom 18 were formally arrested. The detainees included senior municipal officials, district mayors, and influential business figures linked to the case.
Most recently, a third wave in May 2025 led to 22 new detentions. This phase specifically targeted irregularities in tender processes within Media SA and Kultur SA. Prosecutors allege that contracts were steered toward favored firms in exchange for bribes and that a criminal organization operated within the municipality. These operations involved raids, asset seizures, and the detention of key suspects. Investigation has led to detention orders for 22 individuals, including Taner Cetin, Head of the IMM's Department of Press and Public Relations.
Imamoglu strongly denied the accusations. Through his legal representatives, he condemned the investigation as politically motivated and aimed at destabilizing his administration. He emphasized inconsistencies in the charges and noted the public’s continued trust in his leadership, highlighting that many allegations, such as claims of terrorism links and hidden assets, have been disproven.
The investigation has triggered significant political consequences. Imamoglu’s arrest sparked protests across Türkiye, especially in Istanbul, where citizens rallied against what they see as politically motivated prosecutions. After his detention, the Turkish government removed Imamoglu from office and appointed trustees to manage the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and other affected districts, including Beylikduzu and Sisli, whose elected mayors were also detained.
Opposition parties, primarily the Republican People’s Party (CHP) and the IYI Party, criticized the investigation as an attack on democracy and political opposition. CHP has confirmed Imamoglu as its candidate for the 2028 presidential election, signaling continued political resistance.
The investigation covers a broad range of charges, including establishing and leading a criminal organization, bribery, bid rigging, fraud, and illegal handling of personal data. Authorities continue to scrutinize municipal contracts and operations, with the probe’s scope expanding.
Key individuals arrested during the investigation include:
Authorities expect further arrests and legal developments in the coming weeks. The ongoing investigation is set to have significant effects on Istanbul’s local government and the broader political environment in Türkiye.
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