An 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman were stabbed in London’s Leicester Square on Monday, August 12, 2024, just before midday. The incident occurred in the busy tourist area, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
The Metropolitan Police were called to the scene at 11:36 AM. A man has been arrested in connection with the attack and is currently in custody. The police do not believe there are any outstanding suspects.
A security guard, identified as Abdullah, 29, intervened during the attack. He reported tackling the suspect and disarming him before police arrived. “I jumped on him, held the hand in which he was carrying a knife, and just put him down on the floor,” Abdullah stated.
The London Ambulance Service dispatched resources to the scene, including an ambulance crew, an advanced paramedic, and members of their tactical response unit. Both victims were treated at the scene and subsequently taken to a major trauma center. Their current conditions are unknown.
A police cordon has been established around the TWG Tea shop where the incident occurred. The area, popular with tourists and shoppers, remains busy despite the ongoing police presence.
The Metropolitan Police spokesperson emphasized that this incident is not being treated as terror-related. The police remain on high alert following recent unrest in other parts of the country.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with their enquiries.