Turgay Erdem Detained in Bursa on Bribery and Organized Crime Charges

A major corruption probe has been launched in Bursa, where former Nilüfer District Mayor Turgay Erdem and 21 others are facing detention orders on serious allegations including bribery, forming a criminal organization, membership in that organization, and money laundering.

According to a statement from the Bursa Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation centers on suspicions that the former mayor and his associates established a network to solicit and receive bribes, launder illicit funds, and abuse public office during Erdem’s term in municipal leadership.

The operation was carried out by the Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime (KOM) branch of the Bursa Provincial Security Directorate, acting on the prosecutor’s directive.

Police Raids Conducted on Homes and Offices

Early this morning, KOM units launched simultaneous searches at Erdem’s residence and workplace, as well as the properties of the other 21 suspects.
Officials confirmed that digital materials, documents, and financial records were seized as part of the investigation.

Once the searches are completed, Turgay Erdem will be taken into police custody for questioning, according to Anadolu Agency (AA).

Charges Include Bribery, Organized Crime, and Money Laundering

Prosecutors allege that the suspects may have been involved in a structured criminal network engaged in corrupt dealings related to zoning permits, land development, and municipal tenders.

The scope of the investigation includes accusations that illicit financial gains were funneled through intermediaries and shell companies to obscure their origin — a process legally defined as “laundering of criminal assets.”

While details of the evidence remain confidential, sources say the investigation covers the final years of Erdem’s tenure as Nilüfer mayor, one of Bursa’s most prominent and economically active districts.

High-Profile Case Draws Local Attention

The case has drawn significant public attention in Bursa, where Nilüfer — long regarded as one of the city’s most modern and progressive districts — is now at the center of a wide-reaching corruption investigation.

Observers note that the arrest of a former district mayor under organized crime suspicions marks one of the most high-profile municipal corruption probes in recent years.

As of now, no official statement of defense has been made by Erdem or his legal representatives. The investigation remains ongoing, with further detentions possible as authorities examine financial records and communication logs.