Ankara: Turkish judiciary has taken a significant step in its corruption crackdown by ordering the detention of 36 individuals in the capital city of Ankara. This action comes amid allegations of financial and administrative corruption, including charges of bribery and bid-rigging, targeting several officials, notably involving the mayor of a residential district governed by the main opposition party.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ankara Public Prosecutor's Office made this announcement through a press release, detailing that 27 of the suspects have already been detained while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining individuals. Among those targeted is Hseyin Can Gner, the mayor of Ankara's €¡ankaya district and a prominent member of the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP).
Hseyin Can Gner addressed the public via the X platform, affirming his cooperation with the investigation and asserting his administration's integrity. He emphasized, "Since taking office, we have managed this institution in the best possible way and have not engaged in any conduct, however minor, that could embarrass anyone who has placed their trust in us." Gner assured that once the investigation's specifics are clearer, comprehensive explanations will be provided to the public.
This latest development is part of a broader series of investigations targeting municipalities led by the Republican People's Party (CHP). While the government insists on the judiciary's independence, the CHP has consistently criticized these probes, labeling them as politically driven and aimed at undermining the opposition's governance.