UPDATE 2 - Blast near police station in Istanbul injures 10 people

UPDATES INJURY TOLL TO 10 FROM 5

ISTANBUL (AA) - A bomb-laden motorcycle exploded near a police station in Istanbul, injuring 10 people on Thursday, the city's governor said.

Speaking to reporters at the blast site, Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin said the attack took place in Bahcelievler district, located on the European side of the city.

“Ten of our citizens were injured in the explosion; no one is seriously injured,” Sahin said.

Earlier, the governor tweeted that one of the injured was critical.

Preliminary reports based on police sources said the blast took place in an area close to the Yenibosna police station at around 3.50 p.m. (GMT 1250).

The explosion also damaged nearby cars and broken windows in the densely-populated residential district.

Several fire-fighting vehicles and ambulances were seen rushing towards the scene following the incident.

Security forces evacuated the area and were said to be on the look out for a suspect across the city. A helicopter is also being used in the search operation.