In a recent incident in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian police successfully negotiated the release of 17 hostages from a gunman who had taken over a crowded bus, resulting in at least two individuals being wounded. The tense situation unfolded at one of the city's main terminals, where the police's elite squad managed to secure the freedom of all hostages through skillful negotiation.
Authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the gunman's actions, with Police Col. Marco Andrade highlighting the presence of children and elderly individuals among the hostages. The bus, which was parked at the Sao Cristovao terminal in the city center and bound for Minas Gerais, became the center of a high-stakes standoff that gripped the city.
Following the resolution of the crisis, police vehicles and ambulances were on standby near the bus, while a large number of passengers found themselves stranded as they awaited updates on their travel arrangements. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots during the ordeal, causing widespread panic within the terminal.
One individual sustained injuries during the incident and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of such events and the swift response required to ensure the safety of all involved.
For more updates on news from Latin America and the Caribbean, visit AP's coverage.