France: New hostage crisis in the north, injuries reported, but not terrorism-related

A hostage crisis has occurred in Roubaix in northern France. Several people were reportedly injured in a shooting, Reuters reports.

According to initial information, a group of armed men took several hostages. It is not yet known where exactly they are holding them or how many people are detained. As reported by the Independent, police say the case is not related to terrorism, but rather to robbers.

They are reportedly holding a family hostage in whose house they broke in while fleeing from the police.

Local media report that the hostage crisis began at 7 PM local time. According to witness accounts, gunshots can be heard. Police have cordoned off the area where the crisis is unfolding.