Watch: ‘Incredible’ Met Police officer filmed bravely tackling man brandishing fake gun

A Met Police officer has been praised for “incredible bravery” after tackling a man brandishing a weapon.

The man, who got out of a car in Camden and aimed a replica firearm at the officer, has been detained and arrested after the incident this morning (Friday, February 4).

And the encounter was filmed and shared online, while the Met Police has praised the officer’s “selflessness”, saying he had “no idea” whether the firearm was a “lethal weapon”.

The incident occurred when the copper on a motorbike was alone in pursuit of a car which failed to stop at just after 7.30am.

The driver of the car collided with street furniture in Mornington Crescent, near the junction with Harrington Square.

A man got out of the car and was challenged by the officer in pursuit, who drew his Taser.

The man reached for his waistband and retrieved what appeared to be a black firearm.

He dropped it before quickly picking it back up and aiming it directly at the officer.

The officer detained the man, who has now been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm, after discharging his Taser.

He has been taken to hospital prior to going into police custody.

Police have seized the gun and it is thought to be a fake.

The officer was uninjured and there were no reports of any injuries to members of the public.

Firearms officers responded due to the nature of the incident and police remain at the scene.

Ch Supt Roy Smith said: "We are aware of a video circulating online and can assure the public we are taking care of the officer’s welfare.

"His actions in the circumstances are nothing short of incredible.

“He had no idea if the item being pointed at him was a replica or a lethal weapon and yet he maintained his composure and detained the suspect.

"Each day police officers put on the uniform and put themselves in danger to protect Londoners.

“This is a perfect example of the bravery and selflessness that they exhibit so often."