Two Metropolitan Police officers were stabbed in an attack near Leicester Square in central London early on Friday, leaving one with a potentially life-changing injury. The incident occurred at around 06:00 BST on Great Windmill Street, close to Shaftesbury Avenue. Police have confirmed the attack is not related to the death of the Queen nor terrorism.
The female officer was stabbed in the arm, while her male colleague was stabbed three times in the neck and once in the chest after pursuing the suspect. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley described the suspect as “frenzied” and said the male officer was “very seriously injured” but is expected to make a full recovery. The female officer’s injury has been described as potentially life-changing.
A man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and assaulting an emergency worker. He was subdued after officers fired a Taser during a violent struggle and has since been discharged from hospital into police custody. The officers’ families have been informed.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan branded the attack “utterly appalling”, adding: “These brave officers were doing their duty and assisting the public at this momentous time for our country.” Home Secretary Suella Braverman said she was “concerned” and praised the bravery of police. Martin Hewitt, chair of police chiefs, called it “terrible news”.
The area around Leicester Square, usually bustling with tourists and commuters, remains cordoned off with a strong police presence. Shop owners reported arriving to find police setting up barriers. The attack occurred overnight alongside two other officer injuries, including one who was struck by a car in south London.
