Istanbul police on alert after explosion, security warnings

ISTANBUL

DHA photo

Police units in Istanbul stepped up their security measures in Istanbul’s central Taksim Square on April 10 following a sound bomb explosion in the city’s Mecidiyeköy neighborhood, while the United States warned of “credible threats” of a possible attack targeting tourist areas in the metropolis.

Police closed the square with barricades ahead of ceremonies for the 171st anniversary of the Turkish police department’s foundation. Special operations police officers were placed on top of high buildings nearby while a number of armed police officers were ready around the square. Interior Ministry undersecretary Selami Altınok examined the square’s security measures, which will reportedly continue to be taken in the area.

The intensified security measures were taken after a sound bomb, which was placed under an overpass near the Mecidiyeköy metrobus station, exploded late April 9, leaving three people injured, and the United States Embassy in Turkey warned American citizens of “credible threats” to tourist areas in Istanbul and the Mediterranean resort city of Antalya.

An investigation has been launched into the incident to apprehend the suspects responsible for the explosion. A second sound bomb also exploded in a solid waste transfer station in the city’s Şişli district. No injuries were reported in the incident.

On earlier April 9, the U.S. Embassy in Turkey warned American citizens of “credible threats” after Israel warned of “imminent risks” of attacks a day earlier.

On April 8, Israel reissued and accentuated a warning to its citizens to avoid Turkey over the “immediate risks” of attacks.