Former Esenyurt Mayor Ahmet Özer’s Court Verdict
Former Mayor of Esenyurt, Ahmet Özer, who was suspended from his post after being arrested for alleged ties to the armed terrorist organization PKK/KCK, is now facing new charges of “tender rigging”. The investigation launched by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office into a criminal organization allegedly led by Aziz İhsan Aktaş has revealed a pattern of bribing mayors and senior managers of municipalities to secure tenders for their own companies.
Ahmet Özer, along with several other suspects, had their statements taken from prison via the Audio and Video Information System (SEGBİS). Following his statement, Özer was referred to the criminal judgeship of peace and ultimately arrested on charges of “tender rigging”. The Criminal Judgeship of Peace determined that there was enough evidence to warrant his arrest.
The investigation into the criminal organization has also resulted in detention orders for 10 suspects, including Beşiktaş Mayor Rıza Akpolat, on charges of “being a member of a criminal organization”, “tender rigging”, and “illegal acquisition of property”. In total, 12 municipal officials, including Ahmet Özer, have been charged with various crimes including “tender rigging”, “taking bribes”, and “unfair acquisition of property”.
The statement released by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office detailed the extensive efforts made by the organization to manipulate tender processes and secure contracts for their own benefit. In addition to Ahmet Özer, Aziz İhsan Aktaş and 24 other suspects are facing charges ranging from “establishing and managing a criminal organization” to “violating the tax procedure law”.
As the investigation unfolds, more arrests and detention orders are expected as authorities work to dismantle the criminal organization and hold those involved accountable for their actions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in public procurement processes to prevent corruption and abuse of power.
