A bomb attack struck the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) headquarters in the capital city of Ankara, leading to casualties.
The explosion occurred at around 3.35 pm local time (GMT+3) at the entrance of TUSAS’s headquarters on Havacilik Avenue in the Kahramankazan district, followed by gunfire, as reported by the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA). In response, agency personnel were directed to shelters for safety, while security forces, firefighters, and medical teams were deployed to the scene.
Still images from the agency’s security camera footage circulating on Turkish media show at least two individuals armed with rifles storming the facility. It’s not clear whether the assailants have been engaged or neutralized, with some reports indicating that they have take hostages inside the facility. No groups have claimed the attack so far.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the attack in a statement on social media, announcing both fatalities and injuries.
“A terrorist attack targeted the Turkish Ae
rospace Industries facilities in Ankara. Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured individuals. We extend our condolences to the martyrs’ families and wish the wounded a swift recovery,” he wrote. “Further updates will be provided to the public. Please refer to official statements for accurate information.”
Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunç anounced on social media that a criminal investigation has been opened into the incident, with a chief prosecutor and eight prosecutos appointed.
Broadcast ban
A court has issued a broadcast ban on the incident, Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) Chair Ebubekir Sahin announced on social media. The ban prohibits media outlets from publishing images directly from the scene.
Nato chief condemns attack
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte condemned the attack in a statement on social media, saying, “Deeply concerning reports of dead and wounded in Ankara. NATO stands with our Ally Turkey. We strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and are monitoring developments clo
sely.”
In a second message, Rutte said he had spoke with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over the phone, reiterating his message of support.
Assailants killed
At 5.50 pm, Minister Yerlikaya announced that two assailants were killed. Three TUSAS personnel were also killed in the attack while 14 others were wounded, he added.
The assailants were reported to have arrived at the agency in a taxi they had previously stolen.
Death toll rises to five
After two people were killed and 14 were wounded initially after the attack, the death toll rose to five in the following hours, with two people succumbing to wounds. One of the wounded is reportedly in critical condition.
Source: English Bianet
