Management at the Swiss chocolate company, who own the Lindt café in Sydney, expressed horror over the day-long siege on Monday, which ended in the deaths of the hostage-taker and two of his hostages. In a statement they said that the company is "devastated" by the outcome.
Lindt headquarters near Zurich - Photo: CC by-SA Sergio Calleja
"We are devastated by the loss of their lives and that several others were wounded and had to experience such trauma," Lindt & Sprüngli (link in German language) said in a statement.
Man Haron Monis, the Iranian who took 17 people, including employees and customers, hostage in the café in Sydney's financial district, was granted asylum by Australia in 1996. He was killed when police finally stormed the premises with stun grenades and a hail of bullets. The two deceased hostages were a 38-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man and four people were injured.
Ernst Tanner, the chairman and group CEO of Lindt & Sprüngli said in a media statement, "I'm shocked and deeply saddened by the terrible incident that has taken place in Sydney," adding, "I cannot believe that such an act of violence happened."
Tanner went on to offer his condolences and offered support to the victims and their families, as well as any employees affected by the incident.
The Local quoted Tanner as saying, "In these difficult times, we all need to stand together in order to defend the values of freedom, peace and tolerance."
Stephen Loane, CEO Lindt Australia, said he was overwhelmed by the messages of support they had received and said they would be reopening as soon as possible.
"We believe it is right out of principle to stand up and get operational again as soon as possible wherever our staff are comfortable to do so."
"We will therefore reopen all office and manufacturing operations today as well as all our Melbourne Cafes and stores. We aim to reopen our Sydney Cafes as soon as staff feel ready. Thanks once again for your support and understanding."
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