Turkish justice minister orders probe after deadly shooting near Israeli consulate

Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gürlek said authorities have launched an immediate and comprehensive investigation following reports of gunfire near the Israeli consulate in Istanbul, an incident that left at least three people dead and two police officers injured.

In a statement posted on social media, Gürlek confirmed that the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office had opened an inquiry without delay after gunshots were reported in the vicinity of the Israeli Consulate in the Beşiktaş district, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

“One deputy prosecutor and two prosecutors have been assigned to the investigation; our prosecutors immediately arrived at the scene and began an inspection,” Gürlek said.

He added that the probe is being conducted “thoroughly and comprehensively” in coordination with law enforcement agencies to clarify the circumstances of the incident.

The shooting occurred on April 7 near the building housing the consulate in Istanbul. According to initial reports, at least three people were killed and two police officers sustained injuries.

By Sabina Mammadli