Turkish Prime Minister claims there has been an attempted coup

Turkey would not allow any 'initiative that would interrupt democracy,' deputy PM Binali Yildirim says

A Turkish security officer stands on guard on the side of the road (BULENT KILICBULENT KILIC/AFP/Getty Images)

Turkey's prime minister says a group within Turkey's military has engaged in what appeared to be an attempted coup.

Binali Yildirim told NTV television: "It is correct that there was an attempt."

Mr Yildirim didn't provide details, but said Turkey would never allow any "initiative that would interrupt democracy."

"We are focusing on the possibility of an attempt (coup)," Mr Yildirim said.

"There was an illegal act by a group within the military that was acting out of the chain of military command. Our people should know that we will not allow any activity that would harm democracy."

The Hurryiet newspaper reported the PM as saying the security forces would respond with to force with force.

Goverment officials said a statement issued by the military was done without authorisation.

US State Department confirmed reports of the "possible attempted uprising" in the country. They have told US citizens in Turkey to contact family and "remain vigilant".

Similarly, the Associated Press says that Russian officials have urged citizens in Turkey to remain indoors amid the uncertainty caused by the coup.

More follows....