Lewisham residents kept out of homes as armed police stand-off continued into the night
Here’s everything we know so far about yesterday’s police incident in Lewisham
UPDATE: The latest statement from Lewisham Council says: “Earlier this morning all cordons were lifted and residents are able to return home. Roads are open.”
Continue reading to understand more about the incident as it happened.
A police cordon remains in place in Lewisham following a major incident. Rumours have been swirling online and earlier reports suggested it was a potential ‘hostage situation’.
The incident is ongoing and there is significant disruption to services in Lewisham. Here’s everything we know so far about the incident.
What’s happening in Lewisham?
According to reports a man was seen brandishing a knife from a third-floor window on Lewisham High Street.
Police said earlier that they were trying to figure out if there was anyone else in the property. They have since said there was "no indication" anyone else was in the property.
A branch of HSBC opposite closed as a precaution, and the bank said no customers or staff were involved.
A large police cordon is in place causing a significant impact to traffic and transport services.
The incident has been ongoing for most of the day (10th February) and all emergency services remain on the scene.
The Met Police said officers were called to a disturbance at around 10:45am.
London Fire Brigade, Ambulance Service and Met Police are in attendance. Council members are also on hand to assist residents impacted by the incident.
Lewisham road closures and LNT suspended
Several roads have been closed as a result of the incident and the council has suspended the low traffic neighbourhood (LNT) restrictions.
Shortly after 8:30pm, Lewisham Council posted on X: “Police are continuing to attend an incident at a residential property in Lewisham town centre. A cordon remains in place, with significant impact on traffic and local buses.”
Residents can’t access homes
As a result of the armed police stand-off residents living within the cordon are unable to access their homes.
Lewisham Council said: “Council staff and police are at the scene to support anyone unable to access their home. If you’re unable to return home, please attend the cordon or call 020 8314 6000 for advice and support.”
What are Met Police saying?
Here’s everything Lewisham police have said about the incident: “We are aware of social media reports about an incident in Lewisham High Street. Officers are currently in attendance at a residential address at the location speaking to a man inside the property.”
“Due to an ongoing incident in Lewisham High Street towards Lee High Road, traffic will be diverted and may be heavier than usual. Please plan your journey accordingly.”
Earlier today there were several reports that this may be a ‘hostage situation’. According to the BBC, the Met Police has said “there is no indication” that anyone else is in the property.