In a comprehensive investigation into Turkey's poultry sector, trustee oversight was appointed for 13 companies and 28 suspects were detained. The investigation was launched following public complaints and allegations regarding recent price increases.
Under the coordination of the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, the inquiry is examining whether certain poultry companies and their executives coordinated pricing, supply, and sales policies in a way that disrupted market conditions. The prosecutor's office considers that these practices may have harmed consumers.
The investigation was conducted in eight provinces
Organized Crime units carried out simultaneous operations in Istanbul, Ankara, Balıkesir, Bolu, Bursa, İzmir, Samsun, and Uşak. During the operations, detention orders were enforced, and searches and seizures were conducted targeting company executives and other suspects.
The investigation includes charges such as establishing and managing an organization, membership in an organization, influencing prices, and refusing to sell. Detention orders were issued for a total of 32 suspects, 28 of whom have been detained; efforts continue to apprehend the remaining suspects.
Trustee oversight appointed for 13 companies
The prosecutor's office decided to appoint trustee oversight for 13 companies under Article 133 of the Criminal Procedure Code. This measure aims to ensure that company activities are conducted legally, transparently, and are auditable, as well as to protect the food supply chain.
Among the companies under trustee oversight are major producers and distributors such as Banvit, Lezita, Şenpiliç, Keskinoğlu, Erpiliç, Akpiliç, Hastavuk, and Gedik Pazarlama.
Ministries monitored the process together
Justice Minister Akın Gürlek stated that the operation was carried out to protect consumers and maintain fair market conditions in the poultry sector. Gürlek emphasized that ensuring citizens' access to essential food products under reasonable and fair conditions is a government priority.
The minister also noted that the Ministries of Justice, Interior, Trade, and Treasury and Finance worked in coordination throughout the investigation. He added that attempts to disrupt market order, gain unfair profits, and harm citizens' economic rights will not be tolerated.
The prosecutor's office announced that the investigation continues with the aim of protecting consumer rights, maintaining fair competition, and securing access to essential food products.
