According to Turkish media reports, there was a strong explosion in central Istanbul around 4:20 p.m. (local time) on Sunday afternoon. Several people were injured, NTV reported. There were many people at the site of the explosion. “There are dead and injured,” Istanbul governor Ali Yerlakaya, 54, wrote on Twitter.
A powerful bang can be heard on recordings on the online networks, followed by flames. The images also show a large, black crater and several people lying on the ground. The explosion immediately caused panic among visitors to the shopping street. The explosion took place on Istiklal Street, Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu (52) wrote. This street is a tourist hotspot in the European part of the Turkish metropolis. After the explosion, the street has been closed and shops are closed. The rescue operation is still underway. (AFP/SDA)
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