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The man seized two hostage in Rue des Petites Ecuries, with armed police and firefighters racing to the scene.

A third person escaped capture and suffered minor injuries as he fought with the hostage-taker.

After a stand-off lasting several hours, the hostage taker was arrested and hostages released.

An official did not comment on the hostages' condition but said they were "out of safety".

Sources at the scene said the hostages had been doused in petrol during the horrific incident.