Turkish authorities detain 13 in probe targeting opposition-run municipalities
Prosecutors say 13 people were detained in a corruption probe into concerts run by Ankara's metropolitan government, tied to 32 events from 2021–2024 and 154.4 million lira in alleged losses.
ANKARA, Turkey — Turkish authorities detained 13 people Tuesday as part of a corruption investigation into concerts organized by the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality, the latest action targeting municipalities run by the opposition Republican People's Party.
Prosecutors said the detainees, including former municipal employees and owners of private event companies, were taken into custody on charges of abuse of public office and rigging of public tenders. The Ankara Chief Prosecutor's Office said the probe centers on 32 concerts held between 2021 and 2024, which allegedly resulted in 154.4 million Turkish lira in financial losses, according to the Interior Ministry, Turkey's Financial Crimes Investigation Board, and the Court of Accounts.
Municipalities led by the opposition CHP have faced a string of corruption probes this year, including the high-profile case against Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who was arrested and detained in March, triggering protests. The government has defended its judiciary as independent, saying investigations are focused on uncovering misconduct rather than pursuing political aims. The CHP has rejected the allegations, arguing they are politically motivated efforts by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government to undermine the opposition through legal means.
Local election results last year underscored the shift of political dynamics in Turkey, with the CHP winning major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara and expanding its foothold in regions traditionally dominated by Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party. Officials cautioned that investigations into graft could continue to surface in municipalities governed by the CHP, but emphasized that actions are expected to follow the rule of law and due process.