Three Gunmen Open Fire in Istanbul, Investigation Underway (Image Source: Internet)
New Delhi: A serious security incident unfolded in Istanbul on Tuesday. Three attackers suddenly opened fire on police officers stationed outside the building housing the Israeli Consulate. A shootout subsequently ensued between the police and the attackers. During the exchange, one attacker was killed, while the remaining two were apprehended with injuries.
The incident occurred while police officers were deployed outside the consulate. The attackers were armed with long-barreled weapons. As soon as they opened fire, the police returned fire. Two police officers also sustained minor injuries during the exchange of gunfire.
According to Turkish officials, the three attackers had traveled to Istanbul from the nearby city of Izmit in a rented car. Two of the attackers were brothers, and one of them had a prior criminal record linked to drug-related offenses. Officials also stated that one of the attackers was affiliated with a group that misuses religion, although the name of the organization was not disclosed.
The consulate is situated within a high-rise building. Officials confirmed that no Israeli diplomats were present at the premises at the time of the incident. Israel had previously recalled its diplomats from Turkey for security reasons, particularly in light of the conflict in Gaza.
Although the investigation into the attack is still ongoing, it is noteworthy that the Islamic State has previously carried out numerous attacks within Turkey. Consequently, the possibility that a terrorist organization was behind this attack has not been ruled out.
Turkish Deputy Justice Minister Akin Gurlek has announced that an investigation into the entire incident has been initiated. The government is working to determine the true motive behind the attack and to ascertain whether a larger network was involved.
