Istanbul judge arrested in bribery probe; MP Lütfü Türkkan case under investigation

October 5, 2026 at 12:07 AM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

A former Istanbul judge was arrested on October 3 on bribery charges as part of a probe into organized interference in judicial processes between 2022 and 2024. Eight suspects have been jailed and five judges and prosecutors suspended. The investigation also covers a case involving İYİ Party MP Lütfü Türkkan, in which the arrested judge allegedly received bribes.

Key Facts

Eight suspects were arrested in the investigation led by the Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.
Former Istanbul 4th Enforcement Court Judge B.K. was arrested on October 3 on bribery charges.
Five judges and prosecutors were suspended by the Council of Judges and Prosecutors.
Arrest warrants were issued for two judicial members abroad on charges of aiding an organization and mediating bribery.
The case file concerning İYİ Party Kocaeli MP Lütfü Türkkan was separated and sent to the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.

Investigation Scope

The Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor's Office launched the investigation into alleged organized interference in cases and investigations at various Istanbul courthouses between 2022 and 2024. The probe covers bribery, mediating bribery, and forming or managing a criminal organization. Businesspeople, politicians, and lawyers are suspected of using contacts with judicial members and courthouse staff to influence proceedings for financial gain.

Türkkan Case Allegations

The investigation includes a case in which İYİ Party Kocaeli MP Lütfü Türkkan was a party at the Istanbul 4th Enforcement Court. The case was allegedly decided in Türkkan's favor through M.Ş., assessed as the criminal organization leader, and Y.A., who remains abroad as a fugitive. Judge B.K., who handled the case and was later arrested, allegedly received bribes worth millions of Turkish lira. Part of the bribe was reportedly sent to a bank account as a down payment, and the remainder was paid to the judge and his brother. The file concerning Türkkan was separated and sent to the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.

Arrests and Suspensions

Eight suspects were arrested after being referred to judicial authorities. Former Istanbul 4th Enforcement Court Judge B.K. was arrested on October 3 on bribery charges after being suspended from duty. Arrest warrants were issued for two judicial members abroad on charges of aiding an organization and mediating bribery. The Council of Judges and Prosecutors suspended five judges and prosecutors after reviewing the file. An investigation was also opened against a retired prosecutor and a judge who resigned.