A Turkish business owner in Monton has encouraged Salfordians to support relief efforts after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Turkey and Syria yesterday.
Monton bistro La Turka owner, Zafer Kesici, has praised Salford Turkish community for coming to the aid of the victims of the earthquake which struck between 3-4AM local time on Monday (Monday 6 February).
The death toll currently stands at more than 5,000, with a Salford-based charity aid worker and their child confirmed dead. The Turkish Vice-President, Fuat Oktay, said 8,000 people had been pulled from the debris so far.
Dozens of countries, including the UK, have provided their aid to help with the search and rescue of people caught under the rubble in both Turkey and Syria.
Mr Kesici said: “Whether it is a small amount or large amount, you should be able to help out… thousands of people are affected. The roads are blocked… the rescue team is struggling. Whether the help is small or large, it can help those affected.”
Salford’s Turkish community has quickly reacted to the crisis, with people coming together and donating to charities that are helping with the crisis.
Initially, there was a 7.8 magnitude main shock that struck at 3 am (local time) and subsequent aftershocks. The biggest aftershock struck at 1.30 pm (local time) and measured 7.5 in magnitude. There have been more than 300 aftershocks.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged his support.
My thoughts are with the people of Türkiye and Syria this morning, particularly with those first responders working so valiantly to save those trapped by the earthquake.
The UK stands ready to help in whatever way we can.
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 6, 2023
The British Red Cross has set up an emergency appeal, which can be found on the charity website.
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