Ankara: A terrorist attack rocked the Turkish capital, Ankara, on Wednesday, with a massive explosion and gunfire erupting at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS). Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that at least four people were killed, and fourteen others were injured in the attack. In retaliation, Turkish security forces killed two of the attackers. The incident occurred while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was in Kazan, Russia. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.
Emergency services, including ambulances and rescue teams, were dispatched to the scene immediately. TUSAS is one of Turkey’s most critical defense and aerospace companies, responsible for projects like the country’s first national fighter jet, KAAN.
Hostages Taken, Explosions Heard
According to media reports, the attackers also took several hostages during the attack. Two explosions were heard at the site, and clashes between the attackers and security forces ensued outside the facility. Local media reported that the situation escalated rapidly, with police forces deployed to contain the threat.
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya labeled the incident a terrorist attack, confirming casualties and injuries. A report from Türkiye Today indicated that some employees were taken hostage, while multiple explosions were heard from inside the factory.
Judicial Investigation Launched
A video from Turkish Aerospace Industries showed special police forces entering the premises to engage the terrorists. In earlier footage, several attackers were seen breaching the factory’s security perimeter with automatic weapons. Turkey’s Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced a judicial investigation into the attack.
Suicide Bomber Suspected
Local media outlet Haberturk TV reported that the explosion might have been caused by a suicide bomber. After the initial blast, gunfire was also heard. NTV television confirmed that security forces, ambulances, and fire brigades were dispatched to the site. Haberturk further reported that employees had been safely evacuated from the factory.