Ankara explosion: At least 18 dead after suspected bomb blast in Turkey

A large explosion, believed to have been caused by a bomb, has killed 18 people in the Turkish capital.

At least 40 more were injured in the impact.

News channel Private NTV said the explosion occurred during rush hour in an area close to military headquarters.

A bus carrying military personnel was passing by as the explosion occurred.

Emergency services at the scene following a car bomb detonation (Picture: EPA)

(Picture: CCN Turkey)

Mehmet Kilicer said officials believe the explosion was caused by a car bomb.

The explosion, which happened close to parliament, govement buildings and Turkey"s military headquarters, was ‘an act of terrorism", Omer Celik, spokesman for the ruling AK Party, said on Twitter.

Explosions near military base in Ankara (Picture: CNN Turkey)

Several cars caught fire, the report said.

Ambulances were seen rushing toward the scene.

The explosion caused a large fire and dark smoke could be seen billowing from a distance.

Police have confirmed they are investigating the cause of the explosion.