WASHINGTON HOSTAGE SITUATION: SWAT TEAM ARRESTS SUSPECT AFTER HE BARRICADED HIMSELF IN GROCERY STORE
The foreign national is a New Zealand citizen who lives in Australia and works as an archaeologist at an Australian university, Australian Broadcasting Corp. reported. The media outlet said it was not releasing the archaeologist's name due to the sensitivity of the situation.
Four hostages are being held by armed criminals in Papua New Guinea. (Fox News)
Manning said the safety of the hostages was the top priority of security forces who "are operating within their set rules of engagement in dealing with these criminals."
DEADLY AUSTRALIA HOSTAGE-TAKING, SHOOTOUT CALLED A TERROR ATTACK
"Our specialized security force personnel will use whatever means necessary against the criminals, up to and including the use of lethal force, in order to provide for the safety and security of the people being held," Manning added.
New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said Tuesday in an email that it was aware of the case but would not provide additional information for privacy reasons.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade declined to comment.