By Oyintari Ben
Two officers from the Metropolitan Police were stabbed close to Haymarket, between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus in London’s West End early this morning, after tackling a man with a knife who was tasered.
One of the officers is said to have been seriously injured and is currently undergoing medical treatment in the hospital. A source said the officer was stabbed in the neck, but the Met police are yet to confirm this.
A Taser was used on the man, in his 20s who was arrested on suspicion of aggravated bodily harm and assault on a responder on emergency duties who had been taken to the hospital.
Following the stabbing, officers rushed into the city centre from outside the West End as the capital prepared for the Queen’s funeral, believed to be the most difficult event faced by police and security services in this time of peace.
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London said: “This night’s attack on police officers on duty in Soho is absolutely appalling. These brave officers carried out their duty and supported the public at this momentous time for our country.
“My thoughts and prayers are with them, their loved ones and colleagues in the police force following this shameful attack. Our police officers are put at risk to protect others and to protect us, and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.”
The London Mayor had spoken with new Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley on the ‘terrible incident’ and remained in close contact with him.
Mr Khan continued: “Attacks on the police will not be tolerated and any perpetrators will be caught and prosecuted.
“I urge anyone with information to come forward to ensure the perpetrator of this disgusting attack is brought to justice.”
Over 10,000 officers are said to be currently on duty in London – many from Scotland and Wales – as the nation mourns Queen Elizabeth II.
