Turkish authorities have issued arrest warrants for 47 municipal officials and staff across Istanbul as part of a sprawling corruption investigation that has already led to the ousting and imprisonment of Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.

The probe, encompassing four separate corruption cases, targets officials in districts including Büyükçekmece, Avcılar, and Gaziosmanpaşa. So far, 32 suspects have been detained, with three abroad and three in custody from prior detentions. Police operations are ongoing to apprehend nine others still at large.

The investigation centers on the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, with İmamoğlu, a prominent opposition leader from the Republican People’s Party (CHP), accused of leading a criminal organization. Prosecutors allege involvement in bid-rigging, bribery, and illicit financial dealings tied to building permits, zoning approvals, and municipal contracts.

İmamoğlu, arrested in March alongside dozens of municipality employees and business associates, denies the charges. Prosecutors, however, point to “extensive evidence,” including financial audit reports from Turkey’s Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK), surveillance records, and witness testimonies.

The CHP has condemned the arrests as politically motivated, noting İmamoğlu’s recent nomination as their presidential candidate. The party has launched nationwide rallies, accusing the government of weaponizing the judiciary to silence a key rival. The government rejects these claims, insisting the case addresses serious criminal offenses.

The investigation has sparked widespread public and international attention, raising concerns over judicial independence and democratic processes in Turkey as political tensions escalate. (ILKHA)