Corruption and Bribery Trial for Former Manavgat Mayor Niyazi Nefi Kara Involves 41 Defendants
Manavgat Corruption Case: Ex-Mayor Faces Multiple Charges
Overview of the Corruption and Bribery Allegations
In the wake of a sweeping investigation into corruption and bribery at the Manavgat Municipality, former Mayor Niyazi Nefi Kara has been formally charged with organizing a criminal group, accepting bribes, embezzlement, and misconduct. The first court hearing at the Manavgat 3rd High Criminal Court is scheduled for December 2.
Comprehensive 155-Page Indictment
The Manavgat Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office compiled a detailed 155-page indictment outlining 33 separate incidents. Charges have been brought against 41 individuals for crimes including forming a criminal organization, taking and giving bribes, embezzlement, and misconduct.
Niyazi Nefi Kara, identified in the indictment as the leader of the alleged network, is accused of establishing a bribery scheme by appointing relatives to key positions. The accusations include demands for bribes, particularly for construction permits, occupancy permits, and business licenses, which were reportedly collected through Kara’s nephew.
Witness Testimonies and Financial Scrutiny
Witness statements included in the case files claim that Kara personally managed the bribery practices. One witness suggested that individuals supporting Kara during the election period were solicited for bribes when applying for construction projects. Another witness reported that Kara expressed his intention to run for Antalya Metropolitan Mayor, claiming he needed 20 million euros for the campaign.
The prosecution argues that funds acquired under Kara’s direction were partially used to enhance his personal wealth. Property transactions dated May 14, 2024, under Kara’s name were cited as evidence supporting these allegations.
Severe Penalties Sought for the Accused
The indictment requests the application of the strictest penalties under the Turkish Penal Code for Kara’s actions. The prosecution seeks to convict Kara of crimes including creating a criminal organization, embezzlement, and accepting bribes. As a result, multiple severe prison sentences have been proposed for the former Manavgat Mayor Niyazi Nefi Kara.
Alongside Kara, his assistant Mehmet Engin T., caught red-handed, along with 43 other suspects, face charges. Eleven of these individuals are already in custody. Kara and his assistant face potential prison terms ranging from 31 to 66 years.
Implications for Manavgat’s Governance
This high-profile legal case has raised concerns about the administrative integrity within Manavgat and sparked discussions about political accountability and corruption at the municipal level. The ongoing trial is being closely watched by both residents and governance watchdogs in Turkey.
