Singapore condemns Istanbul bombing; no reports of Singaporeans affected

SINGAPORE - Singapore strongly condemns the car bomb attack in Istanbul that killed at least 11, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement on Tuesday (June 7).

There have been no reports of Singaporeans being affected by the deadly bombing, the MFA added.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families, and wish those injured a speedy recovery," the Ministry said in the statement.

A car bomb ripped through a police bus in central Istanbul during the morning rush hour, killing 11 people and wounding 36 near the main tourist district, a major university and the mayor's office, Reuters reported.

This is the fourth major bombing in Turkey's biggest city this year.

MFA said it has contacted most of the registered Singaporeans in Istanbul and verified that they are safe.

Although there are no Singaporeans affected by the incident, the statement urged Singaporeans in Turkey to be careful: "Singaporeans in Turkey are advised to exercise vigilance and follow the instructions of the Turkish authorities."

Singaporeans in Istanbul who require consular assistance can contact the Singapore Embassy in Ankara or the 24-hour MFA duty office at:

Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Ankara

Phone: + 90 530 066 7311

Email: singemb_ank@mfa.sg

MFA duty office

Phone: +65 6379 8800 / 8855 (24-hour hotline)

Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

This article was first published on June 7, 2016.
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