A hostage crisis at a nightclub in an eastern Dutch town has ended after a man was apprehended.
Four individuals were taken hostage when he entered Café Petticoat in Ede early Saturday morning, threatening to blow himself up, according to local media.
The first three victims were released, and the fourth appeared about six hours after the incident began.
Police stated the suspect’s motive is yet unknown, and his mental state is being investigated.
Authorities were notified to a potential hostage scenario about 05:15 local time (04:15 GMT), according to Dutch broadcaster NOS.
According to Anne Jan Oosterheert, head of operations for the East Netherlands police, the force arrived at the scene within two minutes.
Officials stated the man was carrying a black rucksack and multiple blades, which he displayed to the captives.
Residents in about 150 homes around the area were evacuated and the town centre was closed down.
Mayor René Verhulst said the incident “affected a lot of people” and “emotions are high”.
The hostages were employees who were cleaning when the suspect entered the nightclub, he added.
After the final hostage was released, the suspect emerged from the nightclub wearing a balaclava. He was then handcuffed and led away by police.
Anti-explosives units and police in protective gear were pictured at the scene.
Ms Oosterheert said nearly all of the police’s specialist teams were deployed.
Trains to and from Ede were cancelled, railway operator NS said on its website.
