Stories from Turkey

The Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) received approximately 1 million suspicious transaction reports in 2025. An estimated 50,000 individuals were victims of IBAN-related fraud. More than half of these reports originated from banks, with fraud identified in 65% of the notifications. Authorities determined that fraud was committed in 65% of the reported cases. Investigations found that 65% of these notifications involved fraud. Criminals are reportedly using accounts to launder money from virtual betting, gambling, and drug crimes. One common tactic involves scammers promising scholarships to trick victims into believing money has been sent.

Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel announced openness to all political alliances. The message comes as the party prepares to launch election campaign activities on May 4. Özel stated that the current era requires solidarity rather than political competition. Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel called for a Turkey-wide alliance that transcends individual political parties. Özel indicated the party is open to all alliances and collaborations to address national issues. Special cadres will be present in all 81 provinces starting on that date.

Electric air taxis are being utilized to reduce travel times in the Üsküdar region to under 10 minutes. A trip that normally takes one to two hours by ground vehicle can be completed in less than 10 minutes via air taxi. These vehicles produce zero emissions and are considered environmentally friendly. Air taxi tests are being conducted with the goal of reducing a two-hour journey to just 10 minutes. This development is described as a revolution in reducing shipping and travel times. The technology is currently undergoing testing phases to verify these speed improvements.

The Court of Cassation ruled that common areas in apartment buildings, such as stairwells and doorways, are not for the private use of residents. The decision addresses disputes regarding where residents can leave items like shoes.

To obtain secondary vehicle sales authorization, the previous high school graduation requirement has been changed to primary school graduation. The Turkish Parliament is also continuing discussions on a bill to limit the authority of site management boards to prevent arbitrary increases in monthly maintenance fees.

Adem Soytekin confirmed all statements he provided under effective repentance provisions three months after his arrest.

A truck carrying acid lost control after experiencing brake failure while descending a hill near Manisa. The truck struck nine oncoming vehicles, resulting in a total of ten vehicles being involved in the accident. The incident occurred around 14:30 local time.

A speeding SUV struck a vehicle exiting a parking space in Tekirdağ, Çorlu, before overturning multiple times. Five people, including two children, were injured and taken to the hospital.

CHP leader Özgür Özel announced that the party will begin election campaigning on May 1. The leader stated that he will be in the field across all 81 provinces on Monday. The campaign will said the concept of a 'Turkey Alliance' to address citizen concerns. The leader said the need for a 'Turkey Alliance' that transcends individual political parties. The announcement said a move toward solidarity rather than political competition. Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel announced the opening of all alliances ahead of election activities starting May 4. Special said the party will knock on everyone's door regardless of political views. These comments followed his visit to Turkey's central regions. Özel also called for immediate increases to minimum wages and retiree pensions, suggesting the first three months of inflation differences be applied to minimum wages before July.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that the process toward a terrorism-free Turkey is continuing positively. Erdoğan noted the region is undergoing a critical process and said the importance of the Turkish-Kurdish-Arab alliance. President Erdoğan addressed an AK Party group meeting, stating that attempts to create divisions among citizens would be a betrayal of history and the future. He asserted that no one can come between the people or act as an enemy to them. The speech occurred amid criticisms from CHP leader Özgür Özel regarding recent political directions. Erdoğan also directed remarks toward those who view themselves as part of a large elite family.