'Some hostages' freed at Dutch Apple store

Witnesses said they had heard gunshots around the store in the central Leidseplein square and that a hostage situation developed after an attempted armed robbery about 5.30pm on Tuesday.

Images circulating on social media showed a man in camouflage trousers and hoodie brandishing what looked like a gun and holding another man hostage inside the Apple store. Reuters could not verify the images.

Police reported an incident in the Leidseplein shortly after 6pm and a large number of forces took up position around the Apple flagship store.

Police, confirming media reports of a hostage situation, cleared the square and asked neighbours to remain inside.

The large Apple store is located at one end of the upscale Leidseplein, a square at the south side of Amsterdam's centre.