Ekrem Imamoğlu, the former mayor of Istanbul and a key figure in Turkey’s opposition, has been accused of orchestrating a widespread bribery and corruption network during his tenure, according to a key suspect’s testimony in an ongoing investigation.
Businessman Arp Yalçınkaya, who cooperated with authorities under a remorse law, claimed that Imamoğlu and his associates collected bribes through a “fund” allegedly used to finance political ambitions, including a future presidential campaign and influence within the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP).
According to Yalçınkaya, cash was flown to London aboard private jets, disguised as gift parcels, with some flights carrying up to $10 million. The operation reportedly involved laundering money through currency exchange offices, cryptocurrency platforms, and offshore transfers via cold wallets.
Key players in the alleged scheme include business figures who rapidly amassed wealth through municipal tenders after Imamoğlu’s rise to power. Bribes were also used to fund political activities, media campaigns, and internal party elections. The investigation links numerous individuals, including senior municipal staff and media personnel, to the illegal fund.
Authorities are continuing to uncover details as part of a broader anti-corruption probe targeting Istanbul’s former administration.
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