The moment a young barista ran for freedom

Elly Chen had turned up for work at Sydney’s Lindt cafe, for a day supposedly like any other.

Just after the morning rush, the University of NSW student was captive of a gunman, forcing her and others against a window with an Islamic flag and issuing threats.

The images of a desperate Ms Chen escaping the café have flooded the internet, as she dashed towards heavily armed gunman and towards safety.

Along with another five hostages who escaped after hours of captivity, the relief was evident on the young woman’s face.

Friend Bee Doyle told The Daily Telegraph: “I just saw the wonderful footage that Elly has escaped or has been released. Gosh what a relief’’.

Her sister Nicole Chen posted her relief on Facebook.

“Yessss I finally see you. I’m so glad you’re safe!!!!’’

Some of the five have been treated in hospital for shock, while an undermined number remain captive by the gunman.