Bomb attack hits Turkish Aerospace Industries facility in Ankara, multiple deaths and injuries reported
An ambulance is seen driving down the main thoroughfare in Kahramankazan, some 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Ankara in the vicinity of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) building, after a huge explosion outside the headquarters on October 23, 2024. (AFP Photo)
A bomb attack targeted the entrance gate of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) facility in Kazan, Ankara, on Wednesday, leading to a violent clash between the assailants and security forces.
According to reports, the explosion occurred when terrorists detonated explosives in a commercial taxi at the facility’s entrance. Initial accounts suggest that one or two attackers set off their suicide vests during the ensuing skirmish.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that there were multiple casualties and heavy injuries without disclosing the number of deaths.
“A terrorist attack was carried out against the Ankara Kahramankazan facilities of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people after the attack,” Yerlikaya said.
“May Allah have mercy on our martyrs and I wish a speedy recovery to our wounded. The public will be informed about developments. Please take into consideration the statements made by official sources,” he added.
“Unfortunately, the number of dead in the terrorist attack on in Ankara reaches 5, with total of 22 wounded,” says Interior Minister Yerlikaya, adding, “We assess that the attack was most probably carried out by the terorrist organization PKK.”
Additionally, reports suggested that the terrorists had taken hostages inside the TAI facility, prompting ongoing clashes as security forces respond to the incident.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte: “(Terrorist attack on TAI facilities) We stand with our NATO ally Türkiye. We strongly condemn all forms of terrorism”
Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications Center for Countering Disinformation: “Please take into consideration the statements to be made by official sources regarding the events that took place at the Turkish Aerospace Industries, Ankara Kahramankazan facilities. Do not believe unfounded allegations.”
Mansur Yavas, mayor of Ankara said, “I am deeply saddened by the conflict and terrorist attack that occurred at the TAI facility in Ankara. I wish Allah’s mercy upon our martyrs and a speedy recovery to our wounded. We condemn terrorism.”
Reports claim that a bomb attack occurred in front of the TAI facility in Ankara’s Kazan district, followed by a heated clash. Authorities are yet to confirm details, and investigations are ongoing.
Gunshots and explosions were reportedly heard near the guardhouse at TAI’s facility in Kazan, Ankara. A large explosion allegedly occurred in front of the main gatehouse, followed by gunfire. Numerous police officers have been dispatched to the scene.
