Second wave of operations at Üsküdar Municipality: Occupancy permits under scrutiny

A new operation has been carried out in an investigation targeting Üsküdar Municipality in Istanbul. Within the scope of the investigation coordinated by the Anatolian Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, action was taken following allegations of irregularities in the occupancy permit processes for certain construction projects within the municipality's jurisdiction.

Seven suspects were apprehended and detained in the "second wave" operation conducted by teams from the Istanbul Police Department's Financial Crimes Investigation Branch.

Allegations of "financial gain" in exchange for occupancy permits

According to allegations in the investigation file, it was determined that financial benefits were demanded from contractors and expediters for some construction projects, citing non-compliant conditions in occupancy permit applications.

Investigations suggest that these demands were shaped following assessments that also involved senior officials. Furthermore, it was alleged that occupancy procedures for non-compliant structures were approved.

Financial traffic under investigation

In line with information obtained during the investigation, it is believed that financial benefits were delivered in person, while some payments were made through company accounts and various other channels.

It has been learned that the Financial Crimes Investigation teams are continuing their examination of the financial traffic and transaction records.

9 people were arrested in the first operation

The first operation of the investigation into Üsküdar Municipality was conducted on April 7. In the first wave, 20 suspects were detained, and 9 of them were arrested by the court they were brought before.

10 suspects for whom judicial control was requested were released.

News Source: 12punto