Somalia condemns deadly terror attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries

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Wednesday October 23, 2024

CCTV footage verified and geolocated by CNN shows the attackers approaching the entrance of the aerospace site where a fatal terror attack took place on Wednesday, October 23. From Social Media

Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali government has condemned a deadly terrorist attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), describing it as a "heinous" act that threatens global peace and security. The attack, which occurred at TUSAS headquarters near Ankara on Wednesday, resulted in the deaths of five people and left 22 others injured, according to Turkish authorities.

"This cowardly act is not just an attack on Turkey, but a threat to global peace and security," Somalia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "Somalia, having faced similar challenges, empathizes with Turkey and stands in solidarity with its people."

Somalia praised the swift response of Turkish security forces, expressing confidence that those responsible would be brought to justice. "We urge the international community to strengthen cooperation against terrorism to ensure that such acts do not weaken our shared commitment to protect our people and uphold peace," the statement added.

The attack, described by Turkish officials as a well-coordinated assault, took place at TUSAS, a key defence contractor that manufactures drones and fighter jets. CCTV footage from the incident showed the attackers, identified as a man and a woman, approaching the facility with firearms and backpacks. An explosion rocked the building, followed by gunfire. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya indicated that the militant Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) is suspected of carrying out the attack, though no group has claimed responsibility.

Four TUSAS employees and a taxi driver were killed in the attack, which has heightened concerns about the security of Turkey's critical defence infrastructure. The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, has been engaged in a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish government.

The attack drew strong condemnation from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who was attending the BRICS summit in Russia at the time. "This vile act is an attack on our country's survival and defence industry," Erdogan said. He received support from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who offered condolences, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who stated, "NATO stands with our ally Turkey and strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms."

Somalia, which has faced its own prolonged battle against terrorism, stressed its commitment to fighting terrorism alongside Turkey. "Somalia remains committed to standing with Turkey and the international community in this fight, grounded in mutual trust and shared values," the statement concluded.

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