Just after 10AM local time, an unidentified group attacked the Lindt Café in Martin Place, Sydney, Australia, the financial hub of the city. The men have captured 13 people and forced them to hold up and Islamic flag to the public. It is not confirmed, but local media reports the attack might be related to ISIS.
Two women were recorded holding up an Islamic flag, as Australian media report that it appears two armed men have stormed the café. There is not yet, however, consensus among Australian media regarding how many people are holding the hostages.
Equally unclear are the suspects’ intentions, though sources have told Australia’s news.abc.au that the men taking the café hostage are allegedly demanding to speak to Prime Minister Tony Abbott live on the radio.
Black Islamic flag being held up in window of #lindt chocolate store in Martin Place, Sydney – hostages inside. pic.twitter.com/fAV7PEuY6P
— Andrew Denney (@Andrew_Denney) December 14, 2014
“@Breaking911: Buildings on Lockdown Around #martinplace #Sydney Hostage Crisis @JakeSturmer pic.twitter.com/pYym7ZziDW http://t.co/gHV5dWyoDw“
— Mike Redding (@ReddingWriting) December 15, 2014
Sydney Opera House evacuated after suspect package found https://t.co/aQp2Q9eUhN #sydneysiege
— Yasmin (@yasminancona) December 15, 2014
The Sydney Opera house has been evacuated following the siege at Martin Place.
— Evana (@evana_abade) December 15, 2014
People and media are gathering behind “safe” barricaded part of #MartinPlace, #Sydney. pic.twitter.com/KT8M90eWuu
— αηιs (@H0XH4) December 15, 2014
VIDEO: Hostages in Sydney cafe forced to raise Islamic flags http://t.co/4eE1IMp2jA pic.twitter.com/jAnV4Nxmqc
— Connor Ryan (@connortryan) December 15, 2014
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