AMSTERDAM: Three of the hostages being held in a cafe in central Netherlands Saturday have been released, police said. However, authorities have yet to declare the situation fully resolved.
The incident prompted the evacuation of the town center early Saturday morning after reports emerged of people being held captive at Cafe Petticoat. Police stated that while three hostages have been freed, the situation remains ongoing.
There is currently no indication of a terrorist motive behind the incident, as confirmed by authorities. Ede Mayor Rene Verhulst expressed concern for those involved in the ordeal, emphasizing hopes for a swift and safe resolution.
Details regarding the number of hostages initially held and whether any remain inside the cafe are yet to be confirmed. Local media suggest the involvement of around four or five persons in the incident.
Reports indicate that a “confused” person entered the cafe, making threats and triggering the security response. Police swiftly established a cordon around the area, evacuating residents from approximately 150 nearby houses for safety.
Riot police and explosives experts are deployed at the scene, with the town center cordoned off. Train traffic has been diverted, and residents are urged to avoid the area as authorities work to resolve the situation.
While questions regarding the motive behind the incident linger, police have reiterated that there is no current indication of a terrorist motive. The ongoing situation follows a similar incident last year in Amsterdam, where a man held hostages at an Apple store before being apprehended by authorities.
