UK holidaymakers are being warned of more rigorous security checks when visiting Turkey. The country, which is popular among British tourists for its coastal resorts and vibrant cities, suffered a terrorist attack earlier this week.
Authorities said on Wednesday, October 23, that at least five people died and 22 were wounded in the attack on an aerospace firm in Kahramankazan, roughly 40km from Ankara. According to reports, the two attackers were also killed.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised British nationals in the vicinity on Thursday to heed local authority guidance and stay updated via media outlets. A second FCDO bulletin alert on Thursday evening specifically cautioned travellers about heightened airport security in Turkey.
The alert on Gov.uk reads: “While the incident has ended, the response is ongoing, including increased security measures at Turkish airports, which means security checks will take longer than normal. If you are in the area near the attack, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local media.”
Situated in north-western Turkey, Kahramankazan is well away from the tourist hotspots along the coast, as well as cities such as Istanbul to the west and Antalya towards the south-west.