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                        Hostages Held in Cafe in Sydney

   by VOA News

   At least 13 hostages are reported being held inside a cafe in downtown
   Sydney, Australia, with gunmen displaying what looks like an Islamic
   flag inside.

   Sydney police would only say an "operation" is under way in the city's
   Martin Place district.

   An Australian television station located directly across from the Lindt
   Chocolate Cafe showed pictures of people standing with their hands
   pushed up against the windows.

   A black flag with Arabic writing on it, similar to one used by Islamic
   State, could be seen.

   Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott issued a statement Monday saying
   law enforcement agencies were responding in a thorough and professional
   manner. His statement provided no details on what was going on at the
   cafe.

   Sydney's famed Opera House and other buildings in the area have been
   reported evacuated.
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   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/hostages-held-in-sydney-cafe/2558928.
   html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/hostages-held-in-sydney-cafe/2558928.html