Turkey - security conditions remain tense and fluid following coup attempt
18 July 2916 - RPS Partnership
Following the unexpected coup attempt over the weekend, RPS advises that the situation is still tense in Istanbul and Ankara and travellers to Turkey may wish to heed the following update. If you would like any further advice please do not hesitate to contact us on [email protected] for training to travel to this country of the region.
Security conditions remain tense and fluid following coup attempt
Security conditions in Turkey as of this morning (18 July 2016) remain fluid and tense amid an ongoing government crackdown against suspected participants of the 15 July failed military coup.
Arrests have now exceeded 6,000 across both the military and the judiciary, and include 29 of the country’s top generals. While reports of unrest have largely subsided, isolated instances of violence continue to occur as security forces round up alleged dissidents.
At Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (LTFJ/SAW), Istanbul’s second largest airport, gunfire was reported yesterday (17 July) after 11 individuals implicated in plotting the coup resisted arrest. There were no reported casualties, and the suspected collaborators were detained by security forces.
Heightened security can be expected in the near term as security forces continue to apprehend those believed to be involved in the coup.
Large groups of government supporters continued to gather in public areas throughout Istanbul and Ankara yesterday. President Erdogan has called on Turks to stay on the streets until Friday 22 July, which is likely to cause related disruptions.
RPS Partnership advises travellers to avoid all large gatherings due to the potential for unrest as well as anti-American sentiment.
The Turkish government has demanded the extradition of U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, who is being accused as the mastermind behind the failed coup. While the U.S. has agreed to consider any formal request, a refusal to extradite Gulen could cause a spike in anti-American sentiment and heighten the threat level for citizens in country.
Airports and land borders
Land borders and airports, including Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport (LTBA/IST), remain open and flights have resumed, though international flights continue to experience disruptions. As of 17 July there have been no updates on the Federal Aviation Administration’s decision to prohibit U.S. aircraft flying into or out of Turkey, and the directive remains in effect. See below.
Travellers attempting to leave the country are advised to work directly with transportation providers and confirm travel plans in advance.
U.S. State Department issues updated Travel Warning for Turkey
On 16 July 2016 the U.S. Department of State issued an updated Travel Warning for Turkey. The warning advises U.S. citizens to reconsider all travel to Turkey in light of the recent coup attempt against the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Further, the Federal Aviation Administration has prohibited all U.S. airline carriers from flying to or from Istanbul and Ankara airports.
The U.S. Department of State has urged citizens remaining in Turkey to maintain a low profile and minimise daytime movementas much as possible.
Contact us on [email protected] for more information and advice as well as training to travel in the region.
Source: With thanks to AIG.
Photo: Istanbul - Blue Mosque and Taxim Square