Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has said that July 15 would be observed as the day of democracy every year in Turkey.
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Binali Yildirim said 161 people were killed in the coup attempt against the government, with 2,839 soldiers now detained on suspicion of involvement.
In a statement, the military said it was “re-establishing constitutional order” and the country would abide by worldwide agreements.
He was seen surrounded by supporters and said the coup attempt was an “act of treason” in a live TV speech.
Traffic has been stopped from crossing both the Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet bridges in Istanbul. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Turkish citizens to take to streets, stating that the coup attempt was carried out by a small group within the military.
The announcement was made earlier on NTV television. He said army units have besieged “some institutions”, and he said police – traditionally closer to his government than the army – have been ordered to use arms if necessary.
The country would be run by a “peace council” that would ensure the safety of the population, the statement said. CNN Turk also reported that hostages were being held at the military headquarters.
According to the BBC, Turkey’s top general has been taken hostage at the military headquarters.
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and other Russian officials called on their countrymen to stay indoors.
