Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vows to stay in power

16 July, Ankara

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to stay in power hours after an army faction tried to topple the government.

Speaking at a news conference in Ankara, Erdogan said the attempt to push him from power was an act of treason and that those behind the plot will pay a heavy price.

He said he intends to stay with his people and not go anywhere.

Speaking outside his palace, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said 161 people were killed and 1,440 injured in the coup attempt against the government.

He said, 104 assailants were also killed in during the failed coup. Prime Minister said 2,839 military personnel have been detained and the situation in the country is largely under control.

Mr Yildirim described the coup bid as a black stain on Turkish democracy.

He blamed the coup attempt on the supporters of US-based Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen, who Ankara has for years accused of working to overthrow the authorities.

The permanent chief of staff, Hulusi Akar, was freed by forces loyal to the government having been held hostage at an army base in Ankara for a period.

India has said it has been closely following the developments in Turkey.

In a statement, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson said that New Delhi calls upon all sides to support democracy and mandate of the ballot, and avoid bloodshed.

Union Sports Minister Vijay Goel said all 149 Indian athletes participating in the World School Games at Trabzon in Turkey are safe.

The Minister also said that he has ascertained from the organisers and the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), that all children are safe and the games are on. He said, Sports Authority of India has set up a control room with the help of SGFI.