In a startling daylight incident, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps found himself confronting armed criminals during an attempted carjacking near his Essex residence. The senior Conservative minister was reportedly approached by two masked assailants while attending to his vehicle in Harlow.
Brazen Daylight Attack on Senior Minister
The shocking encounter occurred as Mr Shapps was dealing with a vehicle issue on Tuesday afternoon. Eyewitnesses described seeing two individuals wearing balaclavas approaching the minister's distinctive green Tesla. "One appeared to be armed with what looked like a weapon," a local resident reported.
Quick-Thinking Response
Showing remarkable composure, the Defence Secretary immediately alerted his security detail who swiftly intervened. "Mr Shapps demonstrated impressive presence of mind in this dangerous situation," commented a Whitehall source familiar with the incident.
Police Investigation Underway
Essex Police have confirmed they are treating the incident as an attempted robbery. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Austin stated: "We're pursuing several lines of enquiry and examining CCTV footage from the area." Forensic teams have been scouring the scene for evidence.
Security Concerns for Public Figures
The audacious attack has raised fresh questions about the safety of high-profile politicians. A security expert noted: "This incident shows even senior ministers with protection can be vulnerable to determined criminals." The Home Office has reportedly ordered a review of security protocols.
Local residents expressed shock at the brazen crime in their normally quiet neighbourhood. "You don't expect this sort of thing to happen here, especially in broad daylight," said one Harlow resident.
