Welcome to our midweek round-up of the latest news and updates from Fethiye and across Turkey.
Curated from various news sources.
Garbage Collected in Karaçulha Kayıkseki
Fethiye, MUĞLA – Garbage causing environmental pollution in Kayıkseki, a popular picnic area in Fethiye’s Karaçulha neighbourhood known for its scenic views, was cleaned up by municipal teams.
The teams carried out a detailed cleaning operation, meticulously clearing the area of accumulated trash. Due to the cliffside terrain, collecting the waste was particularly challenging, requiring careful and coordinated efforts.
Following the cleanup, officials called on citizens to be more environmentally conscious and to avoid leaving waste in natural areas. They stressed that protecting such locations is essential for preserving both the environment and the region’s natural beauty for future visitors.
Source: Fethiye TV
Fire Engulfs Attic of Three-Story House in Fethiye
Fethiye, MUĞLA – A fire that broke out in the attic of a three-story house in the Taşyaka neighbourhood of Fethiye was extinguished after approximately one hour of intervention by firefighters, causing extensive damage to the attic.
The incident occurred on 145th Street in the Taşyaka neighbourhood. According to initial reports, the fire started for an unknown reason in the attic of the three-story house. Upon noticing the smoke, nearby residents informed the 112 Emergency Call Center.
Following the report, multiple teams from the fire brigade, health services and police were dispatched to the scene. Firefighters carried out an intensive operation and managed to bring the blaze under control after about one hour, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.
No casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. However, significant material damage occurred in the attic of the house. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the fire.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiyede-uc-katli-evin-cati-kati-alevlere-teslim-oldu
Organized Crime Group Targeting Businesspeople Dismantled in Muğla
Fethiye, MUĞLA – A large-scale operation was carried out in Muğla against an organized crime group calling themselves the “Daltons” and “Casperes,” who were found to be extorting money from businesspeople and business owners through threats and intimidation.
As part of the investigation coordinated by the Fethiye Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, teams from the Muğla Police Department Intelligence Branch and the Smuggling and Organized Crime Branch conducted meticulous work, delivering a significant blow to the criminal organization. Simultaneous raids were carried out at addresses in the districts of Fethiye, Seydikemer, Menteşe, Datça, and Bodrum, as well as in the provinces of Istanbul, Ankara, Mardin, and Hatay. A total of 11 suspects were apprehended and taken into custody.
During searches at the addresses, police seized 2 unlicensed handguns, 2 pump-action shotguns, numerous cartridges of various calibres, along with a large quantity of digital materials and documents believed to be linked to the criminal activities.
According to information obtained, the suspects posed as members of an organized crime group and intimidated businesspeople, demanding extortion money through pressure and threats. It was reported that those who refused to pay were targeted with beatings and armed attacks in an attempt to silence them.
The suspects had been under technical and physical surveillance for a long period and were found to have targeted numerous businesses across Muğla, acting in a coordinated and organized manner.
Legal proceedings have been initiated against the detainees under Article 220 of the Turkish Penal Code (Establishing an Organization for the Purpose of Committing Crimes), Article 106 (Threatening by Exploiting the Intimidating Power of a Criminal Organization), Article 149 (Aggravated Robbery), Article 158 (Aggravated Fraud), and for violation of Law No. 6136 on firearms.
It was stated that the suspects’ statements are continuing at the police station and that they will be referred to the courthouse after the completion of procedures.
Security officials emphasized that no tolerance will be shown to any organization disturbing public order and the business community, and stressed that the fight against organized crime will continue with determination.
Memorial Held for 78 Victims of Kartalkaya Hotel Fire as Families Gather on First Anniversary of Tragedy
Bolu, TURKEY – A memorial ceremony was held late Tuesday night at the Grand Kartal Hotel in the Kartalkaya Ski Resort to mark the first anniversary of the devastating fire that claimed the lives of 78 people.
Families of the victims and members of the public gathered in front of the hotel at 3:17 a.m., the exact time the fire broke out one year ago. Photographs of the victims were placed at the scene as mourners laid carnations, lit candles and released wish balloons into the sky. The names of those who lost their lives and angel figures were projected onto the hotel’s facade using laser lights.
Emotional scenes were witnessed as family members embraced one another, many in tears.
During the ceremony, families stated that the tragedy was the result of organized wrongdoing, mistakes and negligence, which turned a fire that could have been easily controlled into one of the world’s deadliest hotel disasters.
They emphasized that although the pain has deepened over time, their hope for justice remains strong. It was noted that the verdict issued by the Bolu 1st High Criminal Court after nearly a year of legal proceedings met public expectations and could serve as an important precedent.
Families said they have lived with constant grief for 365 days, remembering and praying for their loved ones every day. They stressed that many of the victims lost their lives while trying to help others escape the fire.
Participants also underlined that, despite the tragedy, they continue to stand together in solidarity and will not abandon their pursuit of justice, hoping that similar disasters can be prevented in the future.
Bandırma Ferry to Be Moved to Atatürk’s Landing Site in Samsun
Samsun, TURKEY – The Bandırma Ferry, one of the most powerful symbols of the founding journey of the Republic of Turkey, is set to be transported over land and turned into the centerpiece of a large open-air museum in the northern province of Samsun, officials have announced.
Under the project, the historic vessel that carried Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his comrades to Samsun on May 19, 1919, will be relocated to Tütün Pier — the exact site where Atatürk first set foot on Anatolian soil. This moment is widely regarded as the starting point of the Turkish War of Independence.
The relocation is expected to be completed by May 19, coinciding with the anniversary of this landmark event.
Samsun Mayor Halit Doğan stated that work is continuing on the Open-Air Independence Square Museum Project, which aims to reflect Samsun’s unique role in Turkish history. He noted that detailed planning has already been carried out for the overland transfer of the ferry, including route assessments and logistical arrangements.
Currently located in Doğupark, the Bandırma Ferry operates as a museum ship and attracts around 500,000 visitors each year. However, Doğan emphasized that many visitors leave without spending time in the city center. He said the project aims to turn the city center back into a focal point and reconnect this historic symbol with its original setting.
Following the relocation, the surrounding area will be developed into a 60-decare open-air museum.
Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun marked a decisive turning point, ending the period of paralysis under occupation and igniting a nationwide resistance movement that eventually led to the establishment of the republic in 1923. The journey laid the strategic foundation for unifying political leadership and transforming scattered resistance into a coordinated national struggle.
The Bandırma Ferry, a modest steamship of its era, has since become an enduring symbol of determination, sovereignty and national rebirth.
Source: Hürriyet Daily News
Fethiyespor Fined 258,000 TL After Ziraat Turkish Cup Match
Fethiye, MUĞLA – Fethiyespor Club has been fined a total of 258,000 TL by the Turkish Football Federation Professional Football Disciplinary Board (PFDK) for various violations following the Ziraat Turkish Cup match played against Galatasaray A.Ş. on January 13, 2026.
According to the PFDK’s evaluation, the club was fined 38,000 TL under Article 49/3 of the Football Disciplinary Regulations (FDT) for failing to keep the stadium stairwells clear during the match. In addition, a fine of 110,000 TL was imposed under Article 49/1 of the FDT for allowing unauthorized spectators into the stadium.
Fethiyespor was also fined 55,000 TL under Articles 52/2 and 46/1 of the FDT due to pitch incidents caused by their supporters.
Furthermore, the club received another 55,000 TL fine under Article 46/1 of the FDT for violating regulations related to the lack of seat numbering in the stadium.
With these penalties combined, the total fine imposed on Fethiyespor for the same match reached 258,000 TL. It was reported that the PFDK’s decision has been officially communicated to the club.
Source: Fethiye TV
Fethiye’s Champion Kubilay Alcu Faces Formidable Rival Badou Jack in Riyadh Season
Fethiye, MUĞLA – WBF World Champion and undefeated professional boxer Hasan Kubilay Alcu is reportedly set to face world-renowned star Badou Jack at the 2026 Riyadh Season, one of the world’s most prestigious international sporting events.
Fethiye’s pride, Hasan Kubilay Alcu, is preparing for what could be one of the most important fights of his career. The potential matchup with the famous American boxer Badou Jack has created major excitement in boxing circles and is being described as a historic step for Turkish boxing.
According to reports, Orka Board Member Ercan Torunoğulları’s strong connections within international sports and event organization networks may play a key role in bringing the fight to life. It is stated that negotiations between the parties are ongoing, and the match could become official once organizational details and conditions are finalized.
If confirmed, Alcu stepping into the ring against a globally recognized name like Badou Jack at the Riyadh Season would represent a new chapter in his career and a significant milestone for Turkish boxing. The presence of a Turkish athlete at an event watched by millions worldwide has already generated strong excitement within the sports community.
While official confirmation is still awaited, developments surrounding this high-profile bout are expected to become clearer in the coming days, with boxing fans in Fethiye and across Turkey closely following what could be a historic encounter.
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