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| Version 1 | Version 2 |
|---|---|
| Sydney siege: Gunman takes hostages in Lindt cafe | |
| (35 minutes later) | |
| At least one gunman has taken several people hostage at a cafe in the Australian city of Sydney. | At least one gunman has taken several people hostage at a cafe in the Australian city of Sydney. |
| Pictures on Australian television show at least three people with their hands up against a window, and a black flag with Arabic writing. | Pictures on Australian television show at least three people with their hands up against a window, and a black flag with Arabic writing. |
| Hundreds of armed police have sealed off Martin Place in Sydney's central business district. | Hundreds of armed police have sealed off Martin Place in Sydney's central business district. |
| New South Wales police have asked people to avoid the area. | New South Wales police have asked people to avoid the area. |
| An Australian Broadcasting Corporation reporter said that gunfire had been heard at the scene, the Lindt chocolate cafe - but this has not been confirmed. | |
| Major landmarks in the city such as the Sydney Opera House have been evacuated. | Major landmarks in the city such as the Sydney Opera House have been evacuated. |
| Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has described the incident as "deeply concerning" in a statement. | |
| "All Australians should be reassured that our law enforcement and security agencies are well trained and equipped and are responding in a thorough and professional manner," he said. | |
| A National Security Committee of Cabinet has been convened for Monday morning, the PM's office said. | |
| Are you in Sydney? Have you witnessed the hostage situation? You can get in touch by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk. | |
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