Coastal occupations taken to court: 17 separate criminal complaints
A legal process was initiated against the occupation of publicly owned coastal areas by businesses in Muğla Akyaka and the usurpation of citizens' right to free access to beaches. The Gökova Ecological Life Association filed 17 separate criminal complaints against illegal constructions and public officials who turned a blind eye to this unlawfulness.
In Muğla, the Gökova Ecological Life Association filed a total of 17 separate criminal complaints with the Muğla Chief Public Prosecutor's Office regarding coastal occupations by businesses on Azmak and the seaside in Akyaka, and the failure of public officials to fulfill their duties. In a statement made by the association, it was noted that especially the businesses on Kadın Azmağı exceeded their license limits and the shoreline boundary, occupying publicly owned coastal areas, and that many applications made by citizens regarding this issue have remained unresolved for years.
The statement expressed that although the relevant public institutions are aware of these violations, their failure to fulfill their duties to eliminate illegal constructions and occupations constitutes the main reason for the criminal complaints. The criminal complaint petitions allege that structures and facilities not included in zoning plans were built contrary to the Coastal Law, construction registration documents were issued for these structures, operating licenses were granted, and coastal areas were covered with sunbeds, obstructing the public's right to freely benefit from the coast; entrance fees to beaches were demanded. It was stated that these illegal constructions and activities are mostly located on the coast of Kadın Azmağı, Kitesurf Beach in Akçapınar, Çınar Beach, Akyaka Public Beach, and around the Akyaka Forest Camp.
A MARCH WILL BE HELD
The association's management emphasized that the unique biological diversity of the Gökova Special Environmental Protection Area is a universal value that must be protected and stated that it is unacceptable for public institutions to remain silent under the pressure of profit in the region.
In its statement, it was said, “As the local community, we will resolutely continue all legitimate and legal struggles against illegal construction and coastal occupations to protect Gökova's natural ecosystems, coasts, and common living spaces for future generations.” Meanwhile, the Gökova Ecology Assembly announced a march and press statement in Akyaka on July 31, 2026, to draw attention to coastal occupations.
