The full press conference of Neil Basu, Counter Terrorism Leader of the Metropolitan Police:
I can confirm that the incident occurred around 2 pm today, Friday, November 29. Police were called for a knife attack in a building near the London Bridge. Emergency services were present, including police officers from the City of London and the Metropolitan Police.
A male suspect was shot dead by specialized London police officers and I can confirm that the suspect died on the scene. A number of other people were injured during this incident. As soon as we can provide more information about their condition, we will do so. And our sincere compassion goes to all those who have been involved in this affair and who are eagerly waiting to receive information about their loved ones. As soon as we have more information, we will communicate them to you.
As might be expected due to the nature of the incident, we reacted as if it were related to terrorism. I am now able to confirm that this is a terrorist incident. We are working with the London City Police as part of our intervention. Anti-Terrorism Officers from the Metropolitan Police are now leading this investigation, but I must stress that we keep an open mind about mobile. It would be inappropriate to speculate further for the moment.
Due to reports that the suspect may have had an explosive device, specialists also visited the scene and large safety cords were put in place to ensure that there was no danger. for the public. However, for the moment we believe that the device that was attached to the suspect's body is a dummy explosive device. Officers continue to carry out meticulous searches in the area to ensure there is no threat to the public.
These large cords will remain in place for a long time, and I ask the public to please continue to avoid this area. Public safety is obviously our top priority. We will strengthen police patrols in the city and in the countryside.
I would like to ask anyone with information, images or footage of the incident that can be shared as part of our investigations to do so on the website of the UK police. I also ask the public to remain vigilant and report to the police any event of concern. I will not answer questions for the moment. The Prime Minister has requested a briefing and I am going immediately to Downing Street with the prefect of the Metropolitan Police.
