Indian, US Consulate staff evacuated

New Delhi, December 15

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday confirmed that Indian Consulate staff in Sydney has been evacuated as a preventive measure due to the evolving hostage crisis in the city, where nearly 15 people were held hostage in a café.

“As a preventive measure, in accordance with local requirements, we have evacuated the staff from the consulate building because it is located about 300-400 metre away from where the incident took place,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said.

A helpline number, 0061481453550, has also been set up to provide information. “We have also set up a helpline and the Deputy Counsel General is available,” Akbaruddin said.

“Such incidents are always difficult to handle, but we have standard procedures which are in place. Our consulate in Sydney has been in touch with the local authorities on the matter,” Akbaruddin said. Australian PM Tony Abbott also reportedly convened a national security meeting to discuss the response to the hostage-taking.

Meanwhile, the US also evacuated its Sydney Consulate, which is located near a cafe in the city where hostages were held, a spokeswoman said today. The consulate has also issued an emergency warning to US citizens in Sydney, urging them to "maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance personal security". — ANI & Reuters

Opera House cancels performances

The Opera House in Sydney cancelled Monday night's performances in the light of the siege

"The step is to reduce pressure on transport networks and to provide as much notice as possible to staff and patrons," Sydney Morning Herald reported ians