24 Oct 2024 | 12:07 PM UTC
Turkiye: Authorities likely to maintain increased security nationwide through at least late October following Oct. 23 attack in Ankara /update 4
Authorities increase security across Turkiye as of Oct. 24 in response to Oct. 23 attack in Ankara. Likely disruptions.
Officials will likely maintain increased security nationwide through at least late October in response to the Turkish Aerospace Industries attack on Oct. 23. Additional security measures are likely at sensitive sites nationwide, including tourist hotspots, military bases, defense industry sites, and government buildings. As of early Oct. 24, officials raised the security levels at airports, including Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW). Restrictions on access to social media sites have been reported across the country in the wake of the attack.
Groups may stage protests in major centers nationwide, to denounce the Oct. 23 attack. Security forces may conduct operations, including raids against suspected terrorist cells, across the country. Further terrorist-sponsored attacks are possible.
Security-related disruptions are possible for international arrivals at airports, maritime ports, and land border crossings. As a precaution, responses to potential security incidents, including suspicious packages and bomb threats, will likely be enhanced throughout the region in the coming weeks. Precautionary security force reactions, including evacuations and search operations, will likely prompt short notice and short-term business and public transport disruptions. Additional security procedures may disrupt organized gatherings such as conferences, religious and public commemorations, and sporting and other cultural events.
Prepare for heightened security and security-related disruptions in coming days. Allow additional time for travel to and passenger processing at international airports. Ensure travel documentation is up to date. Avoid travel in the vicinity of sensitive sites, and avoid areas affected by counter-terrorism operations. Strictly heed all instructions from authorities. Avoid any protest activity as a standard security measure. Immediately seek cover at the first sign of any security disturbance.
Authorities report that at least five individuals were killed and 22 injured as a result of the Turkish Aerospace Industries attack, Oct. 23; additionally, at least two attackers were incapacitated. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya characterized the incident as a "terrorist attack." As of Oct. 24, Defense Minister Yasar Guler stated that Turkish forces had conducted airstrikes on PKK targets in Iraq and Syria in response to the attack.
