(UPDATE: 6:59 a.m.) Turkey's health minister says two bomb explosions in the Turkish capital have killed a total of 86 people.

Minister Mehmet Muezinoglu said Saturday another 186 people were injured in the attacks in Ankara on a peace rally.

The minister said 62 people died at the scene while 24 others died after being taken to the hospital.

***

(6:43 a.m.) Kurdish rebels have declared a temporary cease-fire ahead of Turkey's Nov. 1 election.

A Kurdish rebel statement said Saturday the group is halting hostilities to allow the elections to proceed safely. It said it would not launch attacks but would defend itself against attacks.

The announcement came hours after two bomb explosions in the capital killed at least 30 people and injured 126 others.

The group said it aimed to ensure that elections take place in "equal and fair" conditions.

 

More From Newstalk KGVO 1290 AM & 98.3 FM