The first hearing in the trial on “political espionage” began today, with the main defendants being the removed Constantinople Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, his adviser Nezati Ozkan, and journalist Merdan Yanardag.

The opening session is taking place at the Marmara Prison complex in Silivri, before the 25th Istanbul Criminal Court. The defendants are expected to present their initial statements during the proceedings.

Charges and sentencing requests

According to the indictment prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the alleged offences span the period from 2019 to 2025. Prosecutors are seeking prison sentences ranging from 15 to 20 years for Imamoglu, Ozkan, Yanardag, and businessman Huseyin Gun, who is reportedly cooperating with authorities. The indictment also requests a political ban for Imamoglu.

The 160-page indictment is based on digital records, communications, and testimony attributed to businessman Huseyin Gun. Prosecutors allege that personal data of citizens was accessed through a database linked to the Istanbul Municipality.

It is further claimed that Gun maintained contacts with foreign intelligence officials from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel, and that sensitive data was allegedly transferred to foreign intelligence services. The indictment also argues that this information was used for political analysis aimed at influencing the 2019 municipal elections in favor of Imamoglu.

Denials from the defendants

All defendants reject the allegations.

Imamoglu, in earlier testimony, stated that he does not know Huseyin Gun and described their only photograph together as a routine congratulatory image. He also argued that the contact between Gun and Ozkan was limited to approximately 15 days and could not have influenced an electoral process.

Ozkan similarly denied any connection to Gun, stating that “any legal expert reviewing this message alone would conclude that there is no link between us.”

Journalist Merdan Yanardag described the indictment as being “based on interpretations and assumptions,” arguing that it lacks concrete evidence.

Legal framework

The case is being pursued under Article 328 of the Turkish Penal Code, which criminalizes obtaining state secrets related to national security or political interests for espionage purposes.

Separately, Imamoglu is also expected to attend another hearing in a different case concerning the Istanbul Municipality, scheduled for the same day.