Baghdad: An earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck Balikesir province in western Turkey this evening. The Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) stated in a bulletin on its website that the earthquake’s epicenter was in the Sindirig district, at a depth of 11 km below the surface. AFAD confirmed that the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.1 and occurred at 19:53 local time.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Turkish Disaster Management Authority did not provide any information in its bulletin regarding any loss of life or property. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his condolences, stating, “I offer my deepest condolences to all our citizens affected by the earthquake that struck Balikesir and was felt in neighboring provinces.”

President Erdogan further noted, “From the beginning, all our relevant institutions have taken the necessary measures, and we are closely monitoring these efforts. May God protect our country from all harm.”