Cahitoğlu Remanded in Custody for One Day

Cahitoğlu was arrested on allegations of “Receiving Bribes,” “Giving Bribes,” “Offering Bribes,” “Embezzlement,” “Abuse of Office,” “Unlawful Possession of Explosives,” and “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”

Presenting the police report, Detective Sergeant Ertem Hoca told the court that the investigation began after authorities received information alleging that the suspect had solicited a bribe.

According to the police, between 2022 and 2024 Cahitoğlu allegedly received €220,000 and £35,000 in bribes from several individuals to facilitate procedures in government offices. He is also accused of offering £200,000 to a civil servant in exchange for approving the lease of a state-owned property, as well as requesting £200,000 in another case to process an official transaction.

Police stated that three voluntary statements were taken from the suspect, with the third containing an admission related to ammunition and a magazine found in his home. During the search, officers seized a 99mm magazine and 50 live 9mm rounds as evidence. Camera and audio recordings obtained during the investigation will be sent for data analysis.

The police requested an additional day for further inquiries, noting that the investigation is still at an early stage. Cahitoğlu’s lawyer, Süleyman Dolmacı, questioned whether the statements were truly voluntary and asked the court to ensure his client receives medical examination due to a chronic kidney condition.

Evaluating the testimony, Judge Şevket Gazi ordered the suspect to remain in police custody for one day and to be examined by a doctor.

Cahitoğlu was detained yesterday morning at Ercan Airport, where he was preparing to travel to the United Kingdom, before being taken in for questioning by the Financial Police.