UPDATE 2 - Van ploughs into crowd in central Barcelona

UPDATES WITH DEATH TOLL, DETAILS

By Satuk Bugra Kutlugun

ANKARA (AA) - At least 10 people were killed and dozens others were injured when a white van ploughed into a crowd in central Barcelona on Thursday, according to Spainish media reports.

According to El Pais, police confirmed it was a terrorist attack that left 13 people dead; however, Radio Television Espanola (RTVE) put the death toll at 10. El Periodico said at least 32 people were wounded.

RTVE also tweeted that police was now trying to negotiate with two suspects, who were entrenched in a bar in Barcelona.

Earlier, in a series of tweets on its official account, police requested citizens not to transit through the area of Plaza Catalunya.

"Remember to always follow information from official sources. If you are in BCN [Barcelona], avoid Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya," it tweeted.

In another tweet, it said: “Out of respect to the victims and their families, please, do not share images of injured in a trampling of #Ramblas of Barcelona.”

Catalan newspaper La Vanguardia said an armed attacker had entered a restaurant, where he was holding hostages. It remains unclear if the suspect who is holding hostages at the restaurant is the same person who ploughed into the crowd.

Police did not comment on the hostage situation, but only sent out another tweet saying: "If you are in the #Ramblas avoid transiting the area, remains in safe area and facilitates the work of the police. not spread images!".

At the time of attack, the famous street La Rambla was teeming with people, including tourists; the city is visited by some 100 million tourists each year.