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December 16, 2014

Australia: Gunman, 2 Hostages Killed After Police Storm Café 
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In Sydney, Australia, two hostages and a gunman have been killed after
police stormed a downtown café and chocolate shop to end a standoff
that lasted over 16 hours. The gunman has been identified as an Iranian
refugee named Man Haron Monis, who was out on bail on charges including
sexual assault and being an accessory to the murder of his ex-wife.
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said he had a long criminal
record.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott*: "What we do know is that the
perpetrator was well known to state and commonwealth authorities. He had
a long history of violent crime, infatuation with extremism, and mental
instability."

Man Haron Monis opposed Australia's role in the U.S.-led war in
Afghanistan and had been charged with sending harassing letters to the
families of dead Australian soldiers.

 

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