Hainault: Police and public hurt in London car and sword attack

A “man with a sword” has been arrested after reports several people have been stabbed, including two police officers, near a Tube station.

The Met Police received reports of a vehicle being driven into a house in Hainault and “there were reports people have been stabbed”.

“We understand the suspect went on to attack other members of the public and two police officers,” the force said.

Footage shared on social media showed a man with a long knife in Laing Close.

A 36-year-old man was arrested at the scene and is in custody after the vehicle was driven into a property in the Thurlow Gardens area, police said.

“We are awaiting an update on the condition of those injured,” the force added.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan said: “This must have been a terrifying incident for those concerned.”

He added: “I know the wider community will be feeling shock and alarm.

“People will want to know what has happened and will we provide more information as soon as we can.”

Hainault London Underground station was closed, Transport for London (TfL) said.

Wes Streeting, MP for Ilford North, wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “A critical incident has been declared in Hainault.”

He added: “There are station and road closures in place.

“The police, ambulance service and fire brigade are responding.

“I would urge people not to speculate until details are confirmed or post footage on social media.”

– BBC