LONDON, August 12/UK Media/ — A man stabbed an 11-year-old girl and her mother in London’s busy theater district on Monday before being apprehended by police. Authorities have stated that there is no indication the attack was terrorism-related.
The incident took place just before noon outside a tea shop in Leicester Square, a popular destination for tourists due to its vibrant shops and theaters.
Employees from nearby businesses quickly came to the victims’ aid. Police officers arrived within four minutes and arrested the suspect. Authorities confirmed that they are not seeking any additional suspects in connection with the attack.
“I would like to pay tribute to the members of the public, including staff from local businesses, who bravely intervened in this incident,” said Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah. “They put themselves at risk and showed the best of London in doing so.”
The victims were transported to a major trauma center. The girl required treatment, but her injuries are not life-threatening, police reported. Her 34-year-old mother sustained less serious injuries.
The suspect, a 32-year-old man, is believed to have no prior connection to the victims.
“An urgent investigation is now ongoing, and detectives are working to establish the details around exactly what happened,” Jessah stated.
The stabbing occurred amidst a recent surge in knife crime across Britain, which has been on edge following days of violence. This unrest, marked by anti-immigrant and Islamophobic slogans, has been fueled by right-wing activists who spread misinformation on social media about a mass stabbing during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event that left three girls dead.
It remains unclear if Monday’s attack is connected to the recent unrest.
Police had prepared for further riots over the weekend, but no widespread violence ensued. Government ministers remain on high alert, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office stating that efforts to address the fallout from the recent violence are ongoing.
Heroic Security Guard Intervenes to Save Child in London Knife Attack
A security guard has recounted the moment he helped save an 11-year-old girl during a knife attack in London’s Leicester Square. The Met Police confirmed that a 32-year-old man was arrested following the incident, which also left the girl’s 34-year-old mother injured.
Abdullah, 29, who works at TWG Tea in Leicester Square, acted swiftly to subdue the attacker and, with the assistance of colleagues, administered first aid to the young victim.
The Metropolitan Police stated they are “not looking for anyone else” in connection with the attack and believe the victims did not know their assailant. At this stage, there is no indication that the stabbing was terror-related.
The girl sustained “serious” but not life-threatening injuries and was treated at a hospital, while her mother’s wounds were described as “more minor.”
Police officers remained at the scene, located in one of London’s busiest tourist areas, where a cordon was established. Forensic teams were seen working outside the nearby Lego store, with evidence including a green lighter, black cap, and bloodied napkins found on the ground.
Abdullah told the BBC he responded to the situation after hearing a scream, explaining that he “jumped on the attacker and kicked the knife away from him.” He was assisted by other men who helped restrain the suspect for “four to five” minutes until police arrived.
“It’s horrible to be honest; I’ve never seen anything like that before,” Abdullah said. “To do this to a kid, it’s horrible.” He emphasized that he acted out of a sense of duty to save the child.
Another witness, Jacqueline, described the scene as “horrific,” noting that the attack happened quickly, with police and ambulances arriving soon after.