Attack at Istanbul nightclub Reina: 39 people lost their lives; 65 wounded

Reina nightclub in Ortaköy, İstanbul has been attacked by a gunman shortly after midnight this morning as around 500-600 people were at the club for a New Year's Eve party.

While initial reports indicated there were several people wounded, İstanbul Governor Vasip Şahin went to the site of the attack and announced at least 35 people lost their lives in the shooting and 40 got wounded.

Wounded are taken to nearby hospitals in Şişli and Beyoğlu districts of İstanbul.

Earlier reports of witnesses suggested the attacker or attackers were dressed in Santa Claus costumes, though there is still no official confirmation with regards to neither the number of attackers nor their appearance.

A broadcast ban has been issued after announcement of Governor Şahin.

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İstanbul had been on high alert for any terror attacks, with around 17,000 police officers placed on duty across various parts of the city.

"The inglorious (attackers) raid through the place with Kalashnikovs. The U.S. intelligence warned over such an attack about one week or 10 days ago and measures have been taken, including the sea front. And look what has happened now," owner of the club Mehmet Koçarslan told Hürriyet reporter Toygun Atilla, adding that 'attack could not be prevented despite all warnings.'