Turkish authorities launch corruption investigation into Ankara municipality

An investigation has been authorized into 33 public concerts organized by the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality (ABB) over allegations of public financial loss.

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office opened the investigation after receiving reports about the concerts in November 2024.

Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas had temporarily suspended two senior officials from the city’s Department of Culture and Social Affairs following an ongoing investigation into concerts.

According to an official statement from Ankara Metropolitan Municipality: “A series of cultural and artistic events held between 2021 and 2024 had been under inspection by auditors for some time. The investigation into service procurements covering 130 concerts has now been completed. A decision has been made to authorize an investigation into 33 concerts over alleged public financial loss.”

No irregularities found in 97 concerts

ABB also issued a statement regarding the matter: “As a result of the inspection, no irregularities were found in 97 concerts, and no investigation has been authorized for these events. However, an investigation has been approved for 33 concerts due to allegations of public financial loss. It is important to note that these events had previously been thoroughly examined in routine audits by the Court of Accounts and inspections conducted by the Ministry of Interior, with no negative findings detected.”

9 municipal employees to appeal

Nine municipal employees subject to the investigation plan to appeal the decision by exercising their legal rights before the Regional Administrative Court.

Communications Directorate statement

“Contrary to the allegations, the investigation authorization related to Ankara Metropolitan Municipality does not cover Mayor Mansur Yavas but rather the personnel involved in the matter,” said Communications Directorate.

The Communications Directorate also added: “The investigation was launched based on the review of procurement processes and has no direct link to the mayor. The focus remains on those directly responsible for the alleged issues.”