Why Was Tanju Özcan Arrested?
The recent arrest of Bolu Mayor Tanju Özcan has sparked a legal controversy, as authorities detained him despite the absence of a formal complaint against him. The case underscores growing tensions between the mayor and local prosecutors.
Özcan was taken into custody last week on allegations of extortion, with initial reports suggesting claims from officials at three major market chains – A101, ŞOK, and BİM – that he had demanded money. However, all three companies have since issued statements clarifying they have not filed a complaint against the mayor.
Speaking to Halk TV, attorney Uğur Poyraz explained the unusual circumstances surrounding the arrest. “This didn’t start recently,” Poyraz said. “The Interior Ministry prepared a report stating, ‘There is no evidence of a crime, therefore no investigation is necessary.’ But the Ministry then requested a separate investigation into extortion.”
According to Poyraz, the Bolu Public Prosecutor’s Office subsequently called in representatives from the market chains for questioning. “None of these individuals said, ‘We are filing a complaint,’” the lawyer stated. “However, during the meeting, someone used a phrase starting with ‘You will gladly give…’ which wasn’t profane, but was a demand. Three people testified to this. The prosecutor claims an act of extortion took place, and Tanju Özcan was arrested.”
Poyraz highlighted the discrepancy between the companies’ public statements and the prosecution’s case. “The companies made statements saying they did not file a complaint. However, they would need to submit a formal petition to the prosecutor’s office. We requested that these individuals be brought before the court, but the judge denied our request, saying we could raise the issue during the trial.”
The Interior Ministry had previously conducted an investigation and found no evidence of wrongdoing, according to reports. However, a subsequent request for an extortion investigation was initiated by the Ministry. The Interior Ministry confirmed Özcan’s arrest on March 2, 2026, following a ruling by the Bolu 2nd Penal Court of Peace.
