Turkey: Improvised explosive device (IED) attack kills five in Kulp district (Diyarbakır province) April 8

Event

According to local sources, an improvised explosive device (IED) attack killed five civilians in Diyarbakır province in the morning (local time) on Wednesday, April 8. The attack took place in Kulp district on the road between Kulp and Hazro districts near Güleç neighborhood, as residents were traveling to work in the nearby forest. Reports indicate that Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militants were behind the attack.

Similar attacks are possible in Diyarbakır province over the near term.

Context

The PKK is categorized as a terrorist organization by the Turkish government. The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has accused the PKK of maintaining direct links with the left-wing Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP).

Advice

Individuals in Turkey are advised to closely monitor developments and avoid all locations most likely to be targeted such as government buildings, police stations, police checkpoints, crowded places, hubs, etc. Furthermore, individuals in Turkey are advised to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, anticipate a heightened security presence, and avoid discussing political subjects in public or on social media.