Magnitude-5.7 earthquake hits eastern Turkey

By Davut Demircan

ANKARA (AA) - A magnitude-5.7 earthquake jolted Turkey's eastern province of Bingol on Sunday, according to the nation's disaster agency.

The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority said the quake struck off Karliova district at 5.24 p.m. local time (1424GMT).

Murat Kurum, the country’s environment and urbanization minister, said rescue teams have been sent to the region, who are following the incident closely.

An observation tower was damaged, and three security forces wounded, the Bingol governorate said.

Bingol is surrounded by mountains and numerous glacier lakes, and has recently become a popular tourist destination.