Explosion in central Istanbul, four dead, large number injured

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - An explosion hit central Istanbul on Sunday, injuring at least 11 people, according to local reports.

Unverified video footage posted on social media shows several people on the ground amid blast damage. The footage shows emergency services and police arriving at the scene.

Security forces have also established a security cordon in the area. Citizens are not allowed to approach the area.

The cause of the explosion is not yet known.

“Today, around 4:20 PM, an explosion occurred on Taksim Istiklal Street in our Beyoğlu district. Our police, health, fire and AFAD teams have been dispatched to the scene. There are casualties and injured. The public will be informed about developments,” Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya announced.

According to initial information, four people died in the explosion.