Prosecutors seek continued detention for mayors in organized crime trial

The trial involving the Aziz İhsan Aktaş organized crime group is approaching its final stages, with a verdict anticipated within weeks. A key development in the case involves the prosecution's request to maintain the pretrial detention of seven individuals, a list that includes prominent local officials.

Among those currently detained and facing trial are three mayors: Rıza Akpolat of Beşiktaş, Utku Caner Çaykara of Avcılar, and Oya Tekin of Seyhan. The Istanbul 1st High Criminal Court is overseeing the proceedings. The prosecution presented its interim opinion on the detention status, arguing for the continued imprisonment of all seven defendants.

In addition to the mayors, the detained individuals include Ceyhan Kayhan, Deputy Mayor of Adıyaman; Erhan Daka, Deputy Mayor of Avcılar; Özcan Zenger, Head of Cleaning Affairs at Seyhan Municipality; and Celal Tekin, a lawyer and husband of Mayor Oya Tekin. Their continued detention is now subject to the court's decision.

The court president is expected to rule on the prosecution's request, determining whether the accused will remain in custody as the trial concludes. The outcome of this decision will be a significant factor as the case moves toward its final judgment.