The Turkish authorities have arrested 25 suspects in connection with the shooting of a man during a church service in Istanbul last weekend, according to Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc. Among the arrested suspects are two believed to be tied to Islamic State, including two foreign nationals from Tajikistan and Russia, as confirmed by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that it was in response to a call to target Jews and Christians.
The suspects have been charged with membership of an illegal organization and aggravated intentional homicide. The attack took place at the Italian Santa Maria Catholic Church in Istanbul’s Sariyer district, resulting in the death of one Turkish citizen. CCTV footage showed the masked gunmen entering the church and shooting the man. Although the attack could have been worse, a jammed weapon prevented further casualties. It is noted that Turkish authorities have detained 2,086 people suspected of ties to Islamic State since June 2023.
25 suspects apprehended in connection with church shooting, says Turkish minister
