Ukraine: Security personnel free hostages after security incident in Lutsk July 21 /update 1

Event

Ukrainian police have secured the release of a group of people taken hostage on a bus in Lutsk (Volyn Oblast) on Tuesday, July 21, and have detained the abductor. Earlier on Tuesday, security personnel responded to an incident after an armed man had taken 20 people hostage on a bus. Following several hours of negotiation, the gunman released several hostages. Media sources suggest that shots were fired from the bus and that the gunman threw a grenade (which did not detonate) towards security forces who were surrounding the vehicle. The gunman claimed to have placed an explosive device in a public place in the city, which could be remotely detonated. Police cordoned off the city centre and advised residents to remain indoors in homes or offices. It remains unclear if a device has been found. Media sources state that the hostages are said to be unharmed.

Those in the immediate vicinity should take care and follow the advice of local security authorities. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in Lutsk in the immediate term.

Advice

Individuals in Lutsk are advised to monitor developments, avoid the affected area, prepare for related disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.