Şile Mayor Suspended After Arrest on Bribery and Criminal Organization Charges

Şile Mayor Özgür Kabadayı has been suspended from office following his arrest on charges of bribery and membership in a criminal organization, according to a statement released by Turkey’s Interior Ministry. The ministry cited the Turkish Constitution and Municipal Law as legal grounds for the decision.

Arrest Linked to Bribery and Organized Crime Investigation

The case is being led by the Istanbul Anatolian Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, which has launched a criminal investigation into allegations that Kabadayı was involved in bribery and a criminal network formed for illicit activities.

On July 14, 2025, the Istanbul Anatolian 3rd Criminal Court of Peace ruled for his pre-trial detention, sending Kabadayı to jail pending further proceedings.

Interior Ministry Cites Constitutional Grounds for Suspension

Shortly after the court’s decision, the Ministry of Interior announced that Kabadayı was temporarily removed from his mayoral duties in accordance with Article 127 of the Constitution and Article 47 of Municipal Law No. 5393.

The official statement reads:

“An investigation is ongoing against Şile Mayor Özgür Kabadayı for the alleged crimes of ‘Membership in a Criminal Organization’ and ‘Receiving Bribes.’ Based on the Istanbul Anatolian 3rd Criminal Court of Peace’s ruling on 14.07.2025 (Case No: 2025/824), he has been placed under arrest. As a precautionary measure, and in line with the Constitution and Municipal Law, he has been suspended from his duties by the Ministry of Interior.”

This suspension is considered a temporary administrative measure and does not indicate guilt or a final ruling. The legal process will continue under the jurisdiction of the criminal courts.