Two Metropolitan Police officers were stabbed in central London early on Friday morning after challenging a man suspected of carrying a knife. The attack occurred near Leicester Square at around 6am, with one officer stabbed repeatedly in the neck and another through the arm.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said a female officer approached the suspect and was stabbed through a vein in her arm, causing significant blood loss. The suspect fled but was pursued by a male colleague, who was stabbed three times in the neck and once in the chest during a violent struggle. Other officers deployed Tasers, Pava spray, and a baton to subdue the man, who was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and assaulting an emergency worker.
Both officers were taken to hospital. Sir Mark Rowley described the male officer's injuries as very serious and expressed concern that the female officer's arm injury could be life-changing. The suspect, believed to be in his 20s, was also taken to hospital before being discharged into police custody.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a knife was recovered at the scene. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy stated that the attack is not believed to be terrorist-related or linked to the death of the Queen. The incident comes as the UK prepares for heightened security ahead of the Queen's funeral on Monday.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the attack 'utterly appalling' and 'disgraceful', praising the bravery of the officers. Home Secretary Suella Braverman also expressed support, saying she had discussed the situation with Sir Mark Rowley and wished the officers a swift recovery.
