A coup attempt is in progress in Turkey.

The country’s Prime Minister Binali Yildirim confirmed this. He was quoted by Turkey’s Anadolu Agency as saying: “There is an uprising attempt from within the army. 'Those who are doing this will be punished in the hardest way.”

Yildirim added: “Several key buildings have been blocked. Law enforcement is on alert. Turkish police have taken action, will retaliate.

“We will understand who they are and their purpose soon and will do what is needed. Our nation should keep calm. We will never tolerate such illegal activities that interrupt democracy.”

Anadolu reports that gunfire is heard in Turkish General Staff Headquarters, with reports that helicopter opened fire on people outside complex.

It quoted sources as saying that the Chief of Staff has been taken hostage by group of soldiers attempting military coup.

•Photo shows Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.