At least 11 people have been killed and 36 others injured after a bomb attack on a police vehicle, Istanbul’s governor has said. The deadly explosion ripped through central Istanbul near a university and tourist sites during the morning rush hour.
“Seven law enforcers and four civilians have died in the attack,” Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin told reporters. “Thirty-six people have been injured, three are in critical condition.”
Citing a police source, Turkish broadcaster NTV reported that some 14 people have been injured in the attack, eight law enforcers among them.
Media said the explosion took place as a police vehicle was passing the area.
“There is no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack,” Turkish journalist Pinar Obabasi told reporters, adding that the blast caused “a lot of damage.”
“Police are investigating the crime scene, with a security corridor set up,” she added.
A parked car stuffed with explosives was detonated by remote control as the police bus drove by. Gunshots were heard in the area after the blast, Anadolu Agency said.
Reports vary on the exact location of the explosion. According to CNN Turk, the bomb attack occurred in the central Istanbul district of Vezneciler. Turkish broadcaster NTV reported that a powerful blast took place in the city’s Beyazıt area.
