Several People Held Hostage In Australia

Three people have been seen inside the cafe with their hands up against a window and holding up a black flag with Arabic writing.

Hundreds of armed police have sealed off the Martin Place in the Central Business District.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott described the incident as "deeply concerning".

He said it was not yet clear who was behind the incident but that it could be politically motivated.

Abbot also said that the National Security Committee had been briefed about the incident.

By Rehema Juma

Source: BBC News