UPDATE: Police and military exchange fire in Istanbul's Taksim square and a large explosion has been reported as fighting has once again intensified between anti-Erdogan forces and pro-government sympathizers.
Michael Holmes (@holmescnn) July 16, 2016
Around 30 Turkish soldiers who were part of a faction tied to the military coup surrendered their weapons after being surrounded by armed police in Istanbul's central Taksim Square, according to a Reuter's witness.
As the soldiers handed over their guns and were lead away in police vans, a fighter jet repeatedly screeched overhead at a low altitude causing a boom that shook surrounding buildings and shattered windows.
NTV News reports that at least six people have died in Istanbul in the course of clashes against the anti-Erdogan military forces attempting to overthrow Turkey's government.
Videos shows clashes breaking out in the streets as the coup continues. This comes as Prime Minister Yildirim issues a call for citizens to stand up to the coup military.
— Gilgo (@agirecudi) July 15, 2016
"All of Turkey on the legs, we will not allow the rebels to achieve their goal. I thank the opposition parties of their position. They have shown commitment to the nation's people and democracy. The rebels will suffer severe punishment," the prime minister said. "Today, the entire country will not sleep. I encourage everyone to go on…the streets."
— Freddy Sandernista (@Berniesanderss4) July 15, 2016
Reports indicate that the military has opened fire on the crowds. This follows reports from CNN Turk that soldiers fired on people attempting to cross the Bosphorus Bridge.
— CNN Türk ENG (@CNNTURK_ENG) July 15, 2016
Additional footage shows a military helicopter opening fire on ground targets.
— Conflict News (@Conflicts) July 15, 2016
Elsewhere, videos have emerged showing police arresting army soldiers, as well as civilians escorting coup troops out of government buildings.
— Gissur Simonarson CN (@GissiSim) July 15, 2016
— Sardar Azhar Baloch (@AzharBloch) July 15, 2016
Turkey's Anatoly news reports that at least 17 police officers have been killed in clashes with soldiers.
The government maintains that it is in control.
