On behalf of the Government and the people of Republic of South Africa, His Excellency President Jacob Zuma has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of the Republic of Turkey, in particular the families of the deceased and injured, following the terror attacks on Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport on Tuesday evening, 28 June 2016, which claimed the lives of scores of people and leaving many injured.

President Zuma said: “South Africa shares in the grief of the Turkish people and the international community following the substantial loss of life and wishes the injured survivors a speedy recovery. Terrorism in any form and from whichever quarter cannot be condoned.”

“South Africa stands firmly with the international community in condemning all forms of terrorism and stands in solidarity with the Government of the Republic of Turkey and all countries affected as they mourn the death of their citizens.”

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation’s Consular Services division has been in close contact with the South African Embassy in Ankara following the attacks.

The South African Embassy is in constant communication with Turkish authorities this morning to establish whether there are any South African casualties. At this stage, none have been reported as per their record. The Embassy provided their contact particulars to the Turkish authorities and hospitals in Istanbul, should there have been any South African citizens wishing to contact the Embassy.

Consular Services is currently dealing with enquiries from members of the public and will render the required consular assistance. South Africans in Turkey or family members in South Africa requiring assistance are requested to contact the South African Embassy in Ankara or the Department at +27 12 351 1000.

Source: Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of South Africa