PRIME Minister Tony Abbott says the lives of innocent people have been claimed because of the “sick fantasies” of Sydney siege gunman Man Haron Monis.

But he also paid tribute to the character of citizens who had opened their hearts to members of the different communities who make up the multicultural nature of Sydney.

“Decent, innocent people (have been) caught up in the sick fantasy of a deeply disturbed individual” Mr Abbott told reporters in Sydney.

“We have seen the consequences of this play out over the last 36 hours.” Monis and two of his hostages died at the end of a 16-hour siege at Sydney’s Lindt cafe on Tuesday morning.

media_camera Heavily armed police outside Lindt Cafe in Martin Place yesterday. Picture: Adam Taylor

Mr Abbott said that every Sydneysider could feel quietly proud of the way the city had handled one of the most difficult periods in its history.

“People have responded with typical Australian decency and generosity,” he said.

Mr Abbott said regardless of whether Monis had been on the watchlist of authorities, it was likely that such a crime may not have been prevented.

“It’s quite likely, certainly possible, that this incident could have taken place,” he said.

“Because the level of control that would be necessary to prevent people from going about their daily life, would be very, very high indeed.”

media_camera Heavily armed police prepare to storm the Lindt Cafe this morning. Picture: Gordon McComiskie

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