Hostages killed in botched bank heists Brazil

At least 12 people, including two children, were killed when police engaged in a shootout with bank robbers in northeastern Brazil yesterday, according to authorities.

The two attempted heists in the state of Ceara began around 2.30am local time in the downtown area of the city of Milagres, police said.

News website G1 reported that the robbers blocked off a road into the downtown and took hostages as they began entering two banks on the same street. When police responded, a firefight ensued, leading to several deaths.

Milagres Mayor Lielson Macedo Landim told G1 the hostages were executed by the criminal group and not killed by police fire. He said two children, aged between 10 and 13, were among the dead hostages.

Two suspects were apprehended and several fled, police said. Authorities seized three vehicles, several firearms and explosives.

Andre Costa, secretary of public security in Ceara, said six of the dead were the attackers.

The city announced on its Facebook page that it was suspending public services during the search for the remaining robbers, and urged residents to remain in their homes.