Minister Yerlikaya Confirms No Hostage Situation at TAI
In the latest news update, Minister of Internal Affairs Ali Yerlikaya visited the Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TAI) campus in Kahramankazan, Ankara, where a terrorist attack had occurred, injuring several citizens. After his visit, Minister Yerlikaya addressed the press and confirmed that there was no hostage situation within the academy.
Minister Yerlikaya expressed his gratitude towards the health workers and officials who swiftly and meticulously handled the transfer of the injured individuals from the scene to the hospitals for treatment. He commended their dedication and care in ensuring the well-being of the victims.
Details of the Attack
Providing a timeline of the events that transpired during the terrorist attack at TAI, Minister Yerlikaya revealed that the perpetrators arrived at the entrance gate of the campus in a stolen taxi at 15:26. Two assailants, one male and one female, emerged from the vehicle and began firing at innocent bystanders, resulting in casualties among the staff and visitors.
The female terrorist sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and, realizing she was trapped, detonated an explosive device on herself at 15:30. The male assailant then sought refuge inside the academy building, prompting the arrival of law enforcement authorities to the scene.
Law Enforcement Response
At 15:52, a team comprising a armored vehicle and 17 police special operations units entered the academy building to confront the male terrorist. The assailant threw hand grenades at the officers, causing minor injuries to two of them. Despite the hostile actions of the terrorist, the police maintained composure and engaged in a tactical operation to neutralize the threat.
The male terrorist, in a state of panic, fled to the third floor of the building and barricaded himself in a bathroom. After 48 minutes of intensive effort by the police special operations unit, the assailant detonated an explosive device, resulting in his demise. Despite the controlled nature of the operation, five officers sustained minor injuries during the mission.
Elimination of Terrorists
Minister Yerlikaya also highlighted a recent successful operation in Mardin, where a high-ranking PKK terrorist, who was listed in the red category of wanted individuals, was eliminated after refusing to surrender during a confrontation with security forces. Additionally, another terrorist from the grey category was also neutralized in a separate operation.
Furthermore, the Minister emphasized the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, with 176 suspected PKK members apprehended in joint operations with the Public Prosecutors’ Offices. The meticulous tracking and coordination with law enforcement agencies have led to significant progress in dismantling terrorist networks and ensuring public safety.
In conclusion, Minister Yerlikaya underscored the importance of vigilance and swift action in addressing security threats, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens and maintaining peace and stability in the region.
