The people of Turkey rushed to ATMs to get cash, lined up at gas stations for fuel, and took to the streets as Turkish military forces attempted to take control of the country.
Military forces seized control of the state broadcaster and declaring martial law. In a televised statement the armed forces said their actions were prompted by rising autocratic rule, and increased terrorism in the country.
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While the military claimed control, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the situation “an attempt at an uprising by a minority within our armed forces.”
As the situation unfolded there were reports social media had been blocked, yet images began to emerge online showing the aggressive military presence in the streets, and pushback from the people.
A heavy military presence can be seen in photos and video, with images of tanks rolling through residential streets filling social media.
Erdogan urged citizens to take to the streets in a show of support for the government after the military said it seized full control of the country.
Pro-government supporters rallied in the streets, waving flags and shouting slogans, at times flanked by or in the face of heavily armed military members.
The military has taken position at the base of the Taksim monument at Taksim square in Istanbul, occasionally firing into the air to disperse a growing crowd of government supporters.
Some videos show residents confronting the military; images show people lying in front of tanks.
Reports say all airport in the country have been shut down, with no flights in our out. Images online show groups of people on the tarmac at Ataturk airport, milling about around large planes.
Canadians in Turkey are urged to stay indoors and monitor local media.
Those in need of consular assistance are urged to call 90 (312) 409-2700 or email sos@international.gc.ca.
With files from the Associated Press
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