Armed men hostage visitors cafe in Sydney

Australian Police

Armed men hostage visitors cafe in Sydney

Hundreds of armed police were deployed to surround the cafe in the area of Martin Place, Sydney.

At least one gunman holding a number of visitors to a cafe in the city of Sydney. Hundreds of heavily armed police surrounded the cafe is now.

Impressions television stations Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) shows three people raised their hands behind the cafe window. A black flag with Arabic writing also appears.

An ABC reporter said gunfire was heard in the Lindt chocolate cafe. However, it has not been confirmed by Sydney police are now closing the business district Martin Place, Sydney City.

The area was close to the state governor's office and the main office of Australia's two national banks. Parliament the State of New South Wales are also located nearby cafes.

According to police spokesman, yet no injuries in the incident.

At the same time, the police claimed was dealing with an incident at the Sydney Opera House.

Local media reported that there is a suspicious package at that location. Everyone in the building was evacuated. It remains unclear whether the incident at the Sydney Opera House with regard to standoff at Lindt cafe.

Suspicious package was found at the Sydney Opera House.

The threat of terror

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said the incident at the cafe is very alarming.

"All the people of Australia must be convinced that the law enforcement and security agencies are trained and well equipped. Now they handle thorough and professional manner, "said Abbott.

Furthermore, the prime minister's office said the National Security Committee of the Cabinet held a meeting now.

In September, a series of anti-terror raids in the history of Australia held in Sydney and Brisbane after intelligence information states there are a number of people who are planning an attack in Australia.

There is only one person who was charged with terror offenses in the raid.

Around 70 Australians believed to join the battle in the Middle East, while 20 others have been returned. (BBC)