Paris counter-terrorism operation ‘false alert’ after reports of shooting

French police say a short security operation which took place earlier in central Paris is now over.

The alert was sent by the French government at 4.14pm local time concerning the busy shopping area of Châtelet in the first arrondissement of Paris.

French police confirmed a counter-terrorism operation was underway.

It is unclear however what exactly sparked the false alert, but there were reports of crowds fleeing in panic on nearby Rue Rambuteau and around the Chatelet area.

According to Reuters, security forces had received a phone call claiming assailants had taken hostages at Saint-Leu church.

Witnesses reported there had been gunfire and officers were shouting at members of the public to get away from the scene.

Police said the operation was concluded by 4.50pm (3.50pm BST), saying there was “no danger to report”, but gave no further details.

France remains on high alert following a series of stabbings and attacks, with police powers intensified by a continuing state of emergency.