In a shocking turn of events in northeast London, multiple individuals were wounded in a mass stabbing incident involving a man wielding a sword on Tuesday. Authorities swiftly intervened, leading to the arrest of the assailant, with police asserting that the attack was not linked to terrorism.
The Metropolitan Police disclosed that the suspect, a 36-year-old man, reportedly assaulted members of the public and two officers in the Hainault area.
Images circulating on social media purportedly depicted the assailant brandishing the sword on the street, though the authenticity of the footage could not be independently verified by the media.
The arrest followed police response to reports of a vehicle being driven into a house near Hainault train station.
“This must have been a terrifying incident for those concerned. I know the wider community will be feeling shock and alarm. We do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the wider community,” remarked Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan.
Authorities stressed that the incident was not terrorism-related and no further suspects were being pursued.
Expressing concern over the incident, Britain’s Interior Minister James Cleverly stated, “I am being regularly updated about the incident at Hainault Station this morning. My thoughts are with those who have been affected.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan assured the public of enhanced security measures in the area, urging against speculation and the dissemination of unconfirmed information.
“I remain in constant contact with the Commissioner. A man has been arrested and the area secured. The police are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident. There will be additional reassurance patrols in the area. The police officers and emergency services showed the best of our city – running towards danger to protect others and I thank them from the bottom of my heart,” Mayor Khan stated.
He urged restraint, saying, “I would urge people not to speculate until the details of this incident are confirmed by the police and avoid posting footage on social media.”
