Martin Place siege: Australia PM says unknown if hostage situation politically motiva

Sydney: Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott on Monday issued a short statement on the hostage incident in Martin place in Sydney. He said that the New South Wales police is responding to the incident well. He added that, however, it is yet not known whether the attack is politically motivated. He further stated that he had spoken to NSW Premier Mike Baird and offered him all possible Commonwealth support and assistance. Hostages have been held inside a central Sydney cafe in Australia on Monday where a black flag with white Arabic writing was seen in the window, raising fears of an attack linked to Islamic militants.