New Developments in Manavgat Municipality’s Bribery and Corruption Investigation
Recent developments in the Manavgat Municipality’s bribery and corruption investigation have taken a significant turn. The Manavgat Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has filed an indictment containing 32 distinct charges against Niyazi Nefi Kara, the suspended mayor of Manavgat. The indictment requests severe penalties for Kara, including allegations of establishing an organized crime syndicate, bribery, embezzlement, concealing the illegal source of assets, asset confiscation, and extortion.
Details of the Investigation
Kara has been labeled as the “leader of the organization” in the indictment. Additionally, nine other detainees have been identified as members of the criminal organization. Prosecutors indicate that evidence shows these individuals operated within a coordinated structure.
Initial Trigger for the Investigation
The investigative process commenced in April 2025 following a tip-off. Police teams, through technical surveillance and physical observation, caught Deputy Mayor Engin Tüter accepting a bribe of €110,000 hidden inside a baklava box.
The operation expanded rapidly, leading to the detention of Kara alongside numerous municipal officials, employees, and businesspersons.
Significant Discoveries
During the investigation, a substantial find was made based on testimony from Kara’s nephew, Hüseyin Cem Gül, who cooperated with authorities under the plea bargain provisions. Searches revealed:
- 3 kilograms of gold bars
- €500,000 in cash
- $153,160 in cash
These items were discovered concealed within a warehouse.
Evidence and Proceedings
The indictment, accepted by the Manavgat 3rd Heavy Criminal Court, incorporates various types of evidence. This includes:
- Suspect testimonies
- Bank account movements
- Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) reports
- Expert evaluations
- Fake invoices
- Land registry records
- HTS (communication monitoring) analyses
Statements from some defendants, particularly those seeking leniency through plea agreements, have been pivotal in advancing the investigation.
Key figures, including Deputy Mayor Engin Tüter and Kara’s nephew, have reportedly confessed to the crimes committed.
Upcoming Legal Proceedings
Following the acceptance of the indictment, the public corruption and bribery trial involving the Manavgat Municipality is set to commence soon. The trial will see a total of 41 defendants, including 11 who are in custody, facing charges. Developments in this case are anticipated to attract significant public attention.
