A man wielding a sword attacked civilians and two police officers in the Hainault community of East London, reulsting in five people injured and transported to the hospital for treatment, Associated Press reports.
The Metropolitan Police detailed that they responded to early morning reports of a vehicle crashing into a house on a residential street near Hainault underground station, coupled with reports of individuals being assaulted nearby. Police arrested a 36-year-old suspect at the scene and the incident is not considered terrorism-related, according to the Metropolitan Police. Video footage depicted the suspect, wearing a yellow hoodie and armed with a long sword or knife while walking in the vicinity of residential properties. Witnesses reported hearing police officers urging the suspect to surrender and put down the weapon as they pursued him.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan expressed empathy for those affected, acknowledging the profound impact such incidents can have on the community’s sense of safety and well-being. He assured the public that there is no imminent threats to the wider community.
