Turkey's military attempting to overthrow government

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - JULY 15: Turkish soldiers block Istanbul's Bosphorus Brigde on July 15, 2016 in Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul's bridges across the Bosphorus, the strait separating the European and Asian sides of the city, have been closed to traffic. Reports have suggested that a group within Turkey's military have attempted to overthrow the government. Security forces have been called in as Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim denounced an 'illegal action' by a military 'group', with bridges closed in Istanbul and aircraft flying low over the capital of Ankara. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)

Credit: Burak Kara

Credit: Burak Kara

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - JULY 15: Turkish soldiers block Istanbul's Bosphorus Brigde on July 15, 2016 in Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul's bridges across the Bosphorus, the strait separating the European and Asian sides of the city, have been closed to traffic. Reports have suggested that a group within Turkey's military have attempted to overthrow the government. Security forces have been called in as Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim denounced an 'illegal action' by a military 'group', with bridges closed in Istanbul and aircraft flying low over the capital of Ankara. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)

Military officials in Turkey claim to have overthrown the country's government, despite the prime minister's assurances the coup attempt was unsuccessful.

Military jets and gunfire have been heard in the capital city of Ankara. Security forces locked down two major bridges in Istanbul, and tanks have been seen on the streets.

Prime Minister Binali Yildirim told state TV the lockdown was prompted by an "illegal action" from a military faction and promised the perpetrators would pay "the highest price."

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is currently away from the capital on vacation.

This video includes images from Getty Images and clips from DHA.