Two Romanians were collateral victims in an armed attack in Taksim Square in Istanbul

Two Romanian citizens were injured last night in Taksim Square in Istanbul following a gun attack. The two Romanians received medical care and are out of danger, having suffered only minor injuries, Foreign Minister Oana Toiu said on Facebook. According to the Istanbul press, the Romanians were collateral victims of a conflict that broke out between two Turkish businessmen.

Reporter: The Turkish press reported that the incident involved a gunfight between two businessmen in one of the city's busiest tourist areas. According to local sources, the conflict took place on a street a few steps from Taksim Square.

According to information reported by several Turkish publications, the conflict broke out between the owner of a hotel and the owner of a neighboring cafe, amid complaints about noise.

After an exchange of words, one of the men went inside, returned armed, and fired several shots at his rival and his employees.

It appears that the Romanians who were shot were in the area by chance.

The case came to the attention of the Romanian Consulate General in Istanbul after an emergency call from a Romanian woman who was accompanying them and who was not injured.

Minister Oana Toiu thanked her for her presence of mind. A consular team went to the scene to provide assistance. Romanian authorities are still in contact with the Turkish authorities regarding this case.

The injured Romanians are part of a group participating in a cultural event in Istanbul.

Translated by: Radu Matei