site.btaBulgarian Security, Intelligence Services Put on Alert as Coup Attempt Unfolds in Turkey

Bulgarian Security, Intelligence Services Put on Alert as Coup Attempt Unfolds in Turkey

Sofia, July 16 (BTA) - Prime Minister Boyko Borissov has met with the heads of the State Agency for National Security, the State Intelligence Agency, the ministers of interior and foreign affairs, and all heads of the Bulgarian security services in relation to the situation unfolding in neighbouring Turkey, Cabinet's press centre reported in the early hours of Saturday.

The Prime Minister has ordered all the services to monitor and report about the situation. The border police has increased its patrols on the Bulgarian-Turkish border.

The Foreign Ministry calls on all Bulgarian citizens to cancel their trips to Turkey, regardless of what means of transport they were planning on using. The Ministry urges all Bulgarians in Turkey to stay inside the hotels and residences they are currently in, to avoid public places and register on the Ministry's website as soon as possible. Bulgarians can receive more information and assistance from all Bulgarian diplomatic missions in Ankara, Istanbul, Bursa and Edirne.

Various news agencies reported about an attempted coup taking place in Turkey on Friday evening. Conflicting media reports could not establish whether the military, who are allegedly behind the coup, or the Turkish government, is currently in charge of the country. Shots and explosions are reported in Ankara and Istanbul. Reuters reported that the Turkish National TV TRT has stopped broadcasting following a statement that the military has seized power in the country, while President Erdogan urged supporters to take to the streets.