Four men were injured in a knife attack in Leicester Square in the early hours of Sunday morning, with dramatic footage showing brave members of the public restraining the alleged attacker. Police were called to the Westminster location at 1.08am on September 21 following reports of a man threatening people with a knife.
The victims, aged in their 20s and 30s, sustained injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. Met Police officers arrested a 50-year-old man at the scene on multiple charges before he was detained under the Mental Health Act.
Shocking video footage posted online captured the terrifying incident and the heroic response from bystanders. The clip shows a group of men pinning the alleged attacker to the floor in an attempt to restrain him and prevent further violence.
In the footage, the suspect, dressed in a black coat and trousers with a blue rucksack, can be seen breaking free momentarily. He appears to hold up what looks like a knife whilst ordering everyone to “get away” before standing up, creating a tense confrontation.
Two courageous passersby are then seen facing off with the armed man in a dangerous stand-off. The situation was resolved when a security guard rushed over and tackled the suspect to the ground as he screamed, bringing the frightening incident under control.
The disturbing footage shows blood covering the alleged attacker’s hands during the struggle. Another security guard can be seen locating what appears to be the discarded knife on the floor and carefully removing it from the scene.
The 50-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, possession of an offensive weapon, affray and possession of a Class B drug. The Metropolitan Police confirmed he has since been detained under the Mental Health Act.
A Met Police spokesperson provided details of the incident: “We were called at 01:08hrs on Sunday, 21 September to Leicester Square, Westminster to reports of a man with a knife threatening members of the public.
The spokesperson confirmed that officers found four injured men at the scene and that their injuries were not life-threatening. The swift response from both civilians and security personnel likely prevented more serious casualties.
Leicester Square, a popular tourist destination in central London, would have still had people present despite the early morning hour. The area is known for its theatres, restaurants and nightlife, making it busy even in the early hours of weekends.
The bravery displayed by members of the public and security staff has been widely praised, with their quick thinking and courageous intervention potentially saving lives. Their actions in restraining the suspect until police arrived demonstrated remarkable public spirit.
The incident raises ongoing concerns about knife crime in the capital, though police have not confirmed any motive for the attack. The suspect’s detention under the Mental Health Act suggests authorities are investigating potential mental health factors.
Police are continuing their investigation and have appealed for witnesses to come forward. They have asked anyone with information to contact them on 101 or online, quoting reference CAD 445/21SEP.
Members of the public can also provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Officers are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional footage.
The attack serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges facing London with knife crime, but also demonstrates the courage of ordinary citizens willing to intervene in dangerous situations to protect others.
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