Abstract: An apparatus including a turnstile for controlling the passage of person including a locking assembly with a bearing dish for rotating about an axis of rotation which is oriented approximately 45.degree. from a horizontal line. A releasable locking device selectively allows and restrains rotational movement of the locking assembly in both directions. At least two locking arms are pivotally mounted to the bearing dish about pivot axis extending transverse to a longitudinal axis of the respective locking arm. Each locking arm is pivotable between a substantially-horizontally locked position and a released position permitting unobstructed passage to the turnstile. A locking bar is provided for each locking arm which arrests the respective locking arm in the locked position. An electromagnet maintains a release device in a pre-cocked position. Upon loss of power, the electromagnet actuates the locking bolt to pivot the locking arm into the release position.