'A number' of Irish citizens injured in Istanbul bomb attack

"A number" of Irish citizens have been injured in a bomb attack in Turkey which killed four people and left dozens injured, the Irish government has confirmed.

A suicide attacker detonated a bomb on Istanbul's main pedestrian shopping street on Saturday morning.

Istanbul governor Vasip Sahin said the explosion happened outside a local government office near cafes, restaurants and foreign consulates.

The Turkish government said 36 people were wounded, including two Irish citizens.

Irish minister for trade and foreign affairs Charlie Flanagan expressed his "horror and sadness" at the bombing, saying: "I am deeply saddened by today's horrific bomb attack in central Istanbul.

"I have spoken to ambassador Brendan Ward in Turkey and can confirm that we are aware of a number of Irish citizens among the injured. An embassy official is on the ground in Istanbul to provide consular assistance."

Anyone concerned about an Irish citizen is urged to call 01 408 2000 or the embassy in the Turkish capital Ankara on 0090 312 459 1000.