Istanbul suicide bomber: Policeman killed

Istanbul’s Governor Vasip Sahin has confirmed that the city’s main tourist area has been shaken by a suicide bombing on Tuesday. The attack carried out by a female who also killed herself in the event, left one policeman dead and another officer injured. 

The Sultanahmet region is frequented by thousands of Turkish and foreign visitors alike, as it is home to some of the most famous attractions in the country like the Aga Sophia Museum and the Blue Mosque.

It is claimed that the female bomber went to the police in the Sultanahmet district speaking English and claiming that she had lost her wallet before blowing herself up.

The AFP news agency also reported that emergency services were immediately on the site and that the city tram line which passes through the district was promptly halted.

The prime minister of Turkey, Ahmet Davutoglu told reporters that the bomber was also carrying two separate bombs that didn’t go off: "Two separate bombs [that were on the suicide bomber and that didn't go off] were defused. One policeman is wounded. Police forces and intelligence services are investigating whether there is a link to any group,"

Officials have so far not found any indication of the bomber’s identity or even nationality.