Picture of a gunman apparently holding a hostage in Lindt café, Sydney and a Google Earth image of the area where a siege is taking place
BBC reports:
“A gunman is holding staff and customers hostage at a cafe in Sydney, Australia. The Lindt cafe in the city centre is surrounded by armed police. Officers have made contact with the gunman. Five people have been seen running from the building. It is not clear how many remain inside. A black Islamic flag has been displayed at the window.”
…
“About six hours into the siege, three people were seen running from the building housing the cafe. Two more people followed about an hour later. It is not clear whether they escaped or were released.
Sydney siege: Hostages held in Lindt café (BBC)
Martin Place siege: Sydney CBD cafe workers held up (The Australian)
Pics: News Corp and BBC
Thanks Mark Geary
UPDATE:
Can confirm that several media outlets know the name and background of the hostage taker. Holding off publication. #sydneysiege
— Mark Di Stefano (@MarkDiStef) December 15, 2014