Multiple people have died and “hostages” have been taken after a “terrorist attack” rocked an aerospace facility in Turkey’s capital Ankara this afternoon.
Footage of the attack, at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (Tusas), appears to show armed men and an explosion at the site, while local media reports have claimed a suicide attack had been carried out.
One local outlet, Private NTV television, said a group of assailants arrived at an entry to the complex in a taxi while security personnel were changing shifts.
At least one of the assailants detonated a bomb, while other attackers managed to enter the complex, according to the broadcaster.
Footage of the attack, at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (Tusas), appears to show armed men and an explosion at the siteX
Armed men were caught on security camera footage mid-attack
REUTERS
The country’s interior minister Ali Yerlikaya, reacting to the news, said: “A terrorist attack was carried out against the Tusas facilities in Kahramankazan, Ankara.
“Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people.”
Minutes later, Ekrem Imamoglu – the mayor of Turkey’s largest city Istanbul – said: “I wish God’s mercy upon our martyrs and a speedy recovery for our wounded.
“Our greatest wish is for the hostages to be rescued safely. Our security forces will overcome the terrorist attack. We are united against terrorism.”
Large numbers of emergency vehicles and personnel were seen outside Tusas
REUTERS
Smoke could be seen rising outside the facility as emergency services gathered at the scene
GETTY
Tusas produces Kaan, the Turkish air force’s “fifth-generation” fighter jet
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Further footage from near Tusas showed crowds and emergency services gathering at the scene – which followed images showing a damaged gate and a nearby clash in a car park.
The facility is located some 40km (25 miles) outside Ankara – while the firm headquartered there produces Kaan, the Turkish air force’s “fifth-generation” fighter jet, in conjunction with Britain’s BAE Systems.
More to follow…