Hostages were being held inside a cafe in central Sydney earlier today with a flag displayed against a window, according to witnesses and reports, while police said they were also responding to an “incident” at the nearby Opera House.
Martin Place in the central business district was shut down as scores of armed police surrounded the Lindt chocolate cafe, with TV pictures showing a flag — black with white Arabic writing — held to a window by terrified customers.
Reports said as many as 20 people were in the cafe and that there were at least two gunmen, although police had no immediate comment, only confirming that an operation was underway.
Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs that sounded like gun shots.
Australia has been on high alert after the government raised concerns that citizens who have fought alongside militants in Iraq and Syria could return home radicalised and capable of carrying out attacks.
Martin Place is the finance centre of the city and houses several prominent buildings, including New South Wales state leader Mike Baird´s office, the Reserve Bank of Australia, Westpac Bank and the Commonwealth Bank.
Authorities said they were also dealing with an “incident” at the nearby Sydney Opera House, although police did not say whether it was related to the ongoing siege.
“The police are responding to an incident at the Opera House,” a New South Wales police spokeswoman told the media, adding that no further details were available.
