'Aktaş İhsan Aktaş' Case: 15th Hearing Begins on Decision Day

The 15th hearing in the trial against the Aziz İhsan Aktaş criminal organization is underway at the Istanbul 1st High Criminal Court. The case, which includes 200 defendants, seven of whom are in detention, is approaching its final stages. Among the detained defendants are the Mayors of Beşiktaş, Avcılar, and Seyhan.

During the current session, lawyers are presenting their defenses. The court is hearing arguments in a newly constructed courtroom. Notably, Beşiktaş Mayor Rıza Akpolat is reportedly the only detained defendant who has not yet made a defense statement. The court's schedule indicates that all defenses are expected to be completed within the next two weeks, followed by a roughly 10-day recess for the judges to deliberate and reach a verdict.

The sprawling case involves allegations of irregularities, organized crime, and public damage linked to municipal operations. Seven mayors from the Republican People's Party (CHP) are among the defendants. The trial has garnered significant public attention due to these serious accusations.

Previously, an investigation into Aziz İhsan Aktaş led to charges against numerous individuals, including mayors, municipal officials, and company representatives. The indictment alleges that the criminal organization, allegedly led by Aktaş, engaged in fraudulent activities and irregularities in dealings with municipalities. The detentions of Mayors Rıza Akpolat, Utku Caner Çaykara, and Oya Tekin were part of this investigation.