Australian commandos have stormed a cafe in Sydney, ending a siege by a gunman identified as an Iranian refugee who took dozens of people hostage.
Paramedics carrying stretchers raced towards the cafe moments after the commandos moved into the cafe.
Several people appear to have been injured while the fate of the gunman is not et known.
The centre of the city has been in lockdown since the gunman seized the hostages early on Monday morning.
Early in the siege, hostages were forced to hold up a black Islamic banner at the window.
The cafe is located in Martin Place, a busy shopping area in Sydney's financial district.
Several people appear to have been injured
Prime Minister Tony Abbott said it was "profoundly shocking" that people were being "held hostage by an armed person claiming political motivation".
Army commandos with assault rifles and wearing helmets and body armour could be seen piling into the cafe, tossing stun grenades ahead of them, and apparently opening fire.
Hostages ran to safety with their hands in the air.
A man and a woman were seen being carried to safety by emergency services.
A man and a woman were seen being carried to safety by emergency services.
New South Wales police announced the end of the siege at 02:44 local time (15:44 GMT) in a tweet, promising details later.
Mr Monis is well known to the Australian police
The suspect, 49-year-old Man Haron Monis, received political asylum in Australia in 1996 and was on bail facing a number of charges.
The self-styled Muslim cleric was described by his former lawyer as an isolated figure.Out of media player. Press enter to return or tab to continue.
Watch more about the radicalised members of Australia's Muslim community
Martin Place is home to the state premier's office and the headquarters of major banks.
In September, Australia - which has sent fighter jets to join the US-led coalition conducting air strikes against Islamic State in Iraq - carried out a big anti-terror raid.
One man was charged with plotting to behead a member of the public in Martin Place.
In October, the Australian parliament approved new anti-terrorism laws, including a provision designed to stop Australians fighting in overseas conflicts.
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