A tense hostage situation unfolded at a nightclub in the eastern Netherlands, culminating in a peaceful resolution after several hours on Saturday.

Reports on social media suggest the suspect was of Eritrean origin, and was armed with guns and explosives.

Law enforcement authorities managed to arrest the suspect, who was wearing a balaclava mask, following his surrender to the police.

According to a statement issued by the police, the final hostage was released, and one individual was taken into custody.

Detailed information regarding the incident was not immediately provided.

The incident occurred at Cafe Petticoat located in the town of Ede early Saturday morning, where several individuals, including staff members, were held captive.

The motive behind the hostage-taking remained unclear.

During a news briefing, officials mentioned that the suspect, who had a prior history known to law enforcement, had used knives to threaten the hostages. However, there was no indication suggesting a terrorist motive, as confirmed by the police.

Eyewitnesses reported that the suspect emerged from the club, donning a balaclava mask, and surrendered himself to the authorities.

He complied with police instructions by placing his hands behind his head and kneeling down, before being apprehended and handcuffed by the officers. These events were captured by a Reuters video journalist present at the scene.

As a precautionary measure, police explosives units were dispatched to the premises of the nightclub situated in the town centre.

Consequently, surrounding streets were evacuated, and train services to the area, located approximately 80 km (50 miles) from Amsterdam, were suspended.

The incident, marked by tension and uncertainty, unfolded over several hours but was resolved without any reported casualties or injuries.

Law enforcement authorities managed to defuse the situation and ensure the safety of the hostages and the general public. Further investigations are expected to shed light on the motives behind the hostage-taking incident.

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