Seven employees, initially taken hostage at a Proctor & Gamble (P&G) plant near Istanbul, have been rescued after a challenging nine-hour situation, according to authorities.
Governor Seddar Yavuz of Gebza reported that law enforcement intervened when the suspect, apparently protesting the Gaza war, took a break in the restroom.
Fortunately, the hostages did not sustain any injuries during the incident.
The suspect, whose face was concealed by a Palestinian scarf, was seen in online images wearing what seemed to be an explosives vest and carrying a firearm.
Following a meticulous rescue operation, he was apprehended unharmed.
The hostage-taking occurred around 15:00 local time, with the hostages being released shortly before midnight, as reported by the DHA news agency.
Authorities stated that the suspect aimed to bring attention to the ongoing Gaza situation, evident by a Palestinian flag and a sign reading “doors will be open for Gaza” reportedly painted at the building’s entrance.
A significant investigation into the incident is underway, with police cordoning off access to the factory and deploying medical staff to the scene.
During the standoff, footage revealed relatives of hostages gathered near a police cordon away from the plant.
İsmet Zihni, whose wife worked at the facility, received a distressing message from her stating she had been taken hostage. However, due to the lack of official information, he remained uncertain if it was indeed her.
Frustration among the hostages’ relatives grew due to the absence of statements from Turkish officials or the police.
One hostage’s father expressed discontent, stating, “We have been waiting for six hours without any official making a statement,” as reported by AFP.
In response to the incident, P&G issued a statement expressing relief that no one was harmed.
The company thanked the authorities and first responders for their courageous and professional handling of the situation.
P&G clarified that the suspect was not an employee of the company.
Explosion At Embakasi Gas Filling Station, Multiple Injuries Reported
