Car bomb attack hits police HQ in eastern Turkey; three dead

A powerful blast occurred at the police headquarters in eastern Turkey's province of Elazığ, killing at least three people and wounding more than 146, as terrorists exploded a bomb-ladened car in front of the building on Tuesday, security sources said.

Sources said the attack was conducted by the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) terrorists, a group which has been intensifying its attacks after last month's failed coup attempt.

The number of fatalities could be increased, as the blast was heard from all areas of the city.

Footage showed a large plume of smoke rising from the area in the immediate aftermath of the blast and extensive damage to the facade of the police station.

Many ambulances and medics were sent to the area. At least 25 wounded were taken to the Fırat University Hospital, while approximately 4 others were being treated in the Elazığ Public Hospital.

Security forces cordoned off the area. A wide-ranging operation had been launched immediately to capture the perpetrators. An investigation is being carried out.

The PKK, which is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the United States and the European Union, had resumed its attacks in southeastern Turkey last summer after breaking down a two-year-long ceasefire deal.