Editor’s note: this event is currently developing. The entry may not be fully complete for quite some time as a result. If you have any helpful information, feel free to contribute.
About
As of 15th of December, 2014, a Lindt Chocolate Cafe in Sydney, containing (according to varying reports) between eight and several dozen people, has been held hostage by “at least one” (according to police) shotgun-wielding Islamic militant. It is unknown if the gunman is in possession of explosives at the moment.
Background
The Lindt Chocolate Cafe in question is located at 53 Martin Place, Sydney, Australia. According to eyewitness reports,[1] the gunman was nearby the cafe at approximately 9:47am, carrying a “a blue sports bag” with what appeared to be a gun inside.
It is currently unknown what the gunman’s motives are, although police have asserted that contact has been established.[2]
Canadian PM Stephen Harper has tweeted his support for the hostages, and it has been reported that US President Barack Obama is currently being briefed on the situation.[1]
Timeline
(researching)
Notable Developments
#sydneysiege
On Facebook[3] and Twitter,[4] the hashtag“#sydneysiege” went trending worldwide within hours of the events unfolding. A Reddit live thread[5] was created which had more than 17,000 viewers at peak. A post was also made to /r/worldnews[6] which gathered more than 8,200 comments and 4,800 upvotes within 6 hours, making it reach the front page of Reddit.
Notable Images
Search insight
Currently unavailable.
External References
[1]News.com.au – A man is holding several people hostage at Martin Place cafe
[2]ABC News – Sydney Hostage Situation: 3 People Flee Lindt Chocolate Shop
[3]Facebook – #sydneysiege
[4]Twitter – #sydneysiege
[5]Reddit – Live – Sydney Siege