In Hainault, east of London, a man wielding a sword was apprehended by authorities after he attacked and injured several people. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the incident was not terror-related and they are not seeking additional suspects.
Moment Hainault attack suspect apprehended by police 👮♀️
#HainaultAttack pic.twitter.com/UNtAC7rI3r
— marriyam (@Marriya46170360) May 1, 2024
The authorities received a call shortly before 7:00 am (0600 GMT) reporting that a vehicle had crashed into a house and that individuals had been stabbed.
According to a statement, the suspect proceeded to assault additional members of the public and two police officers .
The London Ambulance Service provided medical treatment to five individuals and transported them all to the hospital. As of now, there is no immediate information available regarding their condition .
The Metropolitan Police, responsible for policing over 620 square miles (1,605 square kilometers) of Greater London, reported the arrest of a 36-year-old man at the scene.
According to Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, this incident does not seem to be related to terrorism.
Social media videos and photos depicted a man wielding what appeared to be a Samurai-type sword in the vicinity of houses. Emergency service vehicles, including police, fire, and ambulances, were present near the town’s Underground station.
Following the incident, London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed deep concern and maintained close communication with the Metropolitan Police commissioner.
“Our police officers and emergency service workers exemplified the finest qualities of our city by courageously facing danger to safeguard others. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to them,” he said.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed disapproval of the Conservative lawmaker’s comments about the mayor of London’s handling of knife crime.
In the year 2023, knife crime in London surged by 20 percent, resulting in 14,577 reported offences. This figure was slightly below the pre-pandemic levels observed in the year leading up to March 2020.
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