CHP Bayrampaşa Mayor Hasan Mutlu Detained in Corruption Probe
hasan mutlu
Istanbul prosecutors have launched a sweeping corruption investigation targeting Bayrampaşa Municipality, leading to the detention of Mayor Hasan Mutlu and 47 others on charges including embezzlement, bribery, and bid rigging. One of the detainess is the deputy chair of MHP Istanbul chapter!
Large-Scale Operation in Istanbul
The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed on Saturday that police carried out raids across 72 homes and workplaces linked to the municipality and suspects. The operation, coordinated by the Financial Crimes Division, led to the detention of Mutlu, five deputy mayors, and five municipal council members.
Hasan Mutlu, a member of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), became the 17th CHP mayor detained in recent anti-corruption operations following the arrest of Beyoğlu Mayor İnan Güney.
Health Check and Custody Procedures
Following his detention, Mutlu was taken to a hospital for a medical examination before being transferred to the Vatan Police Headquarters for questioning. Due to the weekend timing, judicial referrals are expected to begin on Monday.
Prosecutor’s Statement
The Istanbul Prosecutor’s Office issued a formal statement outlining the scope of the probe:
“An investigation has been launched against public officials working at Bayrampaşa Municipality and other individuals on allegations of embezzlement, bribery, and bid rigging. Detention orders have been issued for 48 suspects, including Bayrampaşa Mayor Hasan Mutlu. Raids and seizures are being carried out at 72 properties. The investigation is ongoing.”
Political Dimensions
Reports indicate that among those detained is Yasin Sönmez, deputy provincial chair of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) in Istanbul. The inclusion of political figures from both the CHP and MHP underscores the wide-reaching nature of the probe.
The detentions mark another escalation in corruption allegations against opposition-controlled municipalities, coming at a politically sensitive moment as Turkey approaches upcoming elections.