News

BODRUM TIGHTENS INSPECTIONS AS SUMMER APPROACHES

10.05.2025

Crackdown on Begging, Street Vendors and Occupied Public Spaces

As Bodrum gears up for the summer season, municipal police teams have ramped up inspections targeting illegal occupation of public spaces, street vendors and panhandlers across the district’s busiest neighborhoods.

The municipal police teams, supported by the Municipal Finance Directorate and traffic officers, have been conducting frequent checks in areas such as Cumhuriyet Street (known as Bar Street), Kumbahçe, Neyzen Tevfik Street, Gümbet, Bitez, Yahşi, Müskebi, Turgutreis and Yalıkavak. shops occupying sidewalks without permits are being warned, and if non-compliance continues, fines are issued.

The initiative follows Mayor Tamer Mandalinci’s public statements emphasizing a strict stance on preserving order and the town’s aesthetic character, especially as the tourist season gains momentum.

Child Exploitation Leads to Legal Action

In a joint operation with the District Police Department, six individuals were found exploiting their own underage children for begging. The suspects were subjected to administrative action under Law No. 5326 by municipal teams, while criminal proceedings were launched under the direction of the Public Prosecutor. Authorities affirmed that continuous, day-and-night monitoring of individuals exploiting public sympathy for illegal gain will continue throughout the season.

Street Vendors Also Under Watch

The municipal police teams are also closely monitoring unauthorized street vendors. While first-time offenders are issued warnings and removed from the area, repeat violations result in penalties.

Mayor: “No Tolerance for Those Disrupting the City’s Order”

Mayor Tamer Mandalinci reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to fairness and discipline, stating:

“As tourism intensifies, we are taking firm action on unlicensed vendors, beggars, and unauthorized public space use. Every resident matters to us, but we will not tolerate behavior that disturbs the character of our city or discomforts visitors. With the support of our police force, we shall continue to protect Bodrum’s natural and urban order.”