ISTANBUL – The perpetrators of Sunday’s foiled terrorist attack in the Turkish capital Ankara used a car they stole from a civilian they murdered, said the country’s Interior Ministry.
The links of one of the dead attackers to the terrorist group PKK have been confirmed, the ministry said, adding that an investigation of the other terrorist continues.
The vehicle used in the attack was found to have been stolen from a Turkish citizen named Mikail Bozlagan, who worked as a veterinary health technician in Develi in the central Kayseri province.
He was murdered by the terrorists and his vehicle was stolen, according to Anadolu Agency citing the ministry’s statement.
Two police officers were slightly injured when one of the two terrorists on Sunday morning blew himself up in front of the Security Directorate General in the capital.
“Two terrorists, who arrived in a light commercial vehicle in front of the gate of the Security Directorate General, carried out a bomb attack. One of the terrorists blew himself up and the other was neutralised,” Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya previously said on X.
He added that the two police officers are being treated for injuries, which are not life-threatening.
Ankara prosecutors have launched an investigation into the terrorist attack.
Malaysia condemns attack
Meanwhile, Putrajaya has strongly condemned the suicide bombing incident in Ankara.
“Malaysia stands in solidarity with the Türkiye Government and the international community in rejecting any acts of violence aimed at disrupting the legitimate political process,” said the Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) in a statement Monday.
Wisma Putra also confirmed there was no report of any Malaysian involved in the incident, adding that the Embassy of Malaysia in Türkiye is monitoring the development and closely liaising with relevant local authorities for more information.
“Malaysians in Türkiye are urged to take precautions and always adhere to the travel advisories issued by the local authorities,” the statement read.
Malaysian nationals in Türkiye seeking assistance may contact the Malaysian Embassy in Ankara at 00 (90-312) 44635 47/ 48 or 00 (90 – 5078128406) (Mobile) or email [email protected].
They may also contact the Consulate General in Istanbul at 00 (90-212) 989 10 01 or email [email protected]. – Bernama, October 2, 2023
