PHL government condemns latest attack in Istanbul that left 39 dead

Istanbul on alert as hunt for gunman reaches 4th day (WikipediaPhoto)

MANILA—The Philippine government on Friday strongly condemned the latest terrorist attack at the Reina Night Club in Istanbul, Turkey on New Year’s Day which left 39 dead and 69 injured.

“The Philippines expresses its condolences to the victims and their families, and reaffirms its solidarity with Turkey and the international community in the fight against terrorism in all its forms,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

The Islamic State later claimed responsibility for the shooting rampage at a packed Istanbul nightclub.

Turkish authorities said they detained eight people in connection with the attack that rocked the city in the early hours of New Year’s Day. Amanhunt for the gunman continues.

ISIS claimed that the bloodshed was a revenge for Turkish military involvement in Syria.

The gunman in Santa Claus costume killed a police officer and a civilian outside the Reina Club shortly after midnight. He then entered the crowded club amid the New Year’s Eve revelry, firing at will with a long weapon.

Reports said more than 500 people were packed into the venue.