Hostage crisis in Dhaka after gunmen attack restaurant in diplomatic zone

Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star said that several policemen and civilians have been shot by the attackers.

Dhaka: Several gunmen entered an upmarket restaurant in Dhaka's diplomatic zone and opened fire on Friday evening. Atleast four people, including two cops, have been wounded and 30-40 others have been taken as hostages, reports said.

Eyewitnesses said the 7-8 gunmen entered the Holey Artisan Bakery at around 9:15 pm local time and opened fire.

The Spanish restaurant in the Gulshan diplomatic zone is popular with expatriates and diplomats and is believed to have been packed with patrons when the gunmen barged in.

Reports added that there are many foreigners among the 30-40 people taken hostage.

Security forces have cordoned off the entire area and are trying to get in touch with the attackers to prevent any further bloodshed.

More details are awaited.