Raid-like inspections of entertainment venues in Beyoğlu: 10 businesses shut down

A comprehensive inspection was conducted in Beyoğlu under the coordination of the Istanbul Police Department to ensure the peace and security of local and foreign visitors. Within the scope of the operation, 610 people underwent identity checks (GBT), and 11 individuals identified as being wanted for various crimes were apprehended.

During the inspections, which were attended by teams from the Beyoğlu District Police Department and the Tourism Branch Directorate, the following issues were placed under scrutiny: begging, the exploitation of children for begging, persistent sales and touting targeting tourists, unauthorized parking attendants demanding fees, and businesses causing public disturbance.

Administrative action was taken against 15 people identified as begging during the inspections. It was reported that necessary procedures have also been initiated regarding 25 children who were found to be used for begging.

Administrative action was taken against 35 people identified as engaging in touting targeting tourists. Closure procedures were also carried out for businesses found to be linked to these activities.

Judicial proceedings were initiated against 5 people identified as directing citizens to parking spots and demanding fees without any legal authorization.

Within the scope of the operation, 25 alcohol-serving establishments were inspected. While closure procedures were carried out for 10 businesses found to be in violation of regulations, a total of 725 thousand TL in administrative fines were issued to entertainment venues during checks by tax inspection teams.

Police authorities reported that judicial and administrative actions have been taken against the identified individuals and businesses within the scope of the relevant legislation.