Erdogan admits shortcomings in disaster response, asks for understanding

Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked for the understanding of the people in the earthquake hit city of Adiyaman, admitting that the government failed to carry out effective search and rescue operations in the wake of the twin earthquakes on 6 February.

Addressing a group of quake survivors during his visit to the city on Monday, he said:

"We were unfortunately unable to carry out the operations as effectively as we desired within the first couple of days in Adiyaman because of the incredible scope of destruction, negative weather conditions and the problems related to the the damages inflicted on the infrastructure. For this reason, I am asking for your understanding."

He added:

"Keep in mind that we are aware of everything and we have started doing everything that is necessary, and will continue to do so. We sped up the rescue and aid operations for our brothers and sisters trapped under the rubble once we were able to overcome the difficulties we faced in the first couple of days."