MASAK Report Finds No Evidence of Money Laundering or Terrorism Against Ekrem İmamoğlu

The recent investigation by Turkey's Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK), which played a crucial role in the arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, has found no evidence that İmamoğlu's assets derived from criminal activities or that he was involved in money laundering or terrorism financing, contrary to some claims in pro-government media.

MASAK Report Reveals Lack of Concrete Evidence

According to Sözcü columnist Saygı Öztürk, the MASAK report prepared during the investigation against İmamoğlu contains no concrete findings supporting the allegations made against the mayor. Öztürk specifically noted:

“There is no finding in the report indicating that İmamoğlu's assets were derived from criminal proceeds or that any proceeds were laundered.”

The report primarily contains information of a general, intelligence-gathering nature rather than direct evidence.

Claims on Consultancy Contract and Real Estate Deals Unproven

The MASAK report mentions a supposed consultancy contract between İmamoğlu and Erkan Karaarslan, but no concrete proof or payment records confirming such a contract were discovered.

Additionally, the report references real estate transactions involving certain individuals who were subjects of other investigations by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office Terror and Organized Crime Investigation Bureau. However, the MASAK report states clearly:

“There is no information indicating İmamoğlu’s awareness of these investigations.”

Independent Analysis Reinforces Lack of Evidence

Journalist Bahadır Özgür, who closely examined the MASAK report, previously concluded there was no link or concrete determination supporting allegations of either “corruption” or “terrorism” against İmamoğlu.

Context of the Investigation

İmamoğlu was arrested on March 19 under accusations of “urban compromise” and “corruption,” and subsequently placed in Silivri Prison. The absence of substantial evidence in the MASAK report calls into question the validity and political neutrality of these accusations.