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Turkey’s authorities impose temporary ban on media coverage of Istanbul blast

According to Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya, at least four people were killed and 38 more were injured

ANKARA, November 13. /TASS/. Turkey’s authorities have imposed a temporary ban on media coverage of the explosion in Istanbul’s Istiklal Caddesi pedestrian street, the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTUK) said on Sunday.

"A temporary ban has been imposed on media coverage of the November 13 blast in Istanbul’s Beyoglu. The ban requires media services providers to observe the principles of information distribution indicated in laws, to avoid publications that can cause fear, panic and riots in society or can serve the purposes of terrorist organizations," it said.

Until the ban is lifted, mass media outlets cannot make live broadcasts from the site, disclose information related to the investigation, post photos and videos featuring wounded and killed people. It is also banned to cite unofficial sources. Media are allowed only to cite official statements.

A powerful explosion rocked the crowded Istiklal Caddesi pedestrian street in Istanbul’s Beyoglu district at around 16:20 local time. According to Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya, at least four people were killed and 38 more were injured.

An investigation is underway. A terror attack is among possible causes.

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