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Istanbul nightclub attack suspect 'admits guilt' after capture

The alleged gunman who killed 39 people during an attack on a nightclub in Istanbul during New Year celebrations has been captured in the city, Turkey's prime minister has confirmed.

Istanbul's governor said the suspect admitted his guilt and that it was "clear" the attack was carried out on behalf of so-called Islamic State.

He also revealed the suspect, who he named as Abdulgadir Masharipov, was born in Uzbekistan and had received training in Afghanistan before entering Turkey illegally.

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Istanbul nightclub suspect 'found at Kyrgyz friend's house'

The Istanbul nightclub attacker killed 39 people on New Year's Day. Credit: AP

The suspected gunman behind the Istanbul nightclub attack was found at a house belonging to a Kyrgyz friend in a special police operation in Istanbul's Esenyurt district, according to private NTV television.

Hurriyet newspaper and other media identified the suspect as Abdulkadir Masharipov, an Uzbek national.

ITV News understands he is currently being treated in hospital for unknown injuries.

Media reports said he would 'undergo medical checks' before being taken to a police headquarters for questioning.

Dogan news agency published an image showing a bruised, black-haired man in a grey, bloodied shirt being held by his neck. NTV television said he had resisted arrest.

The suspected gunman had been on the run since the attack.

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