The U.S. Embassy in London was briefly locked down on Friday morning after Metropolitan Police carried out a controlled explosion of a suspicious package found outside the building.
Swift Action and Precaution
The incident unfolded in the Nine Elms area, prompting an immediate lockdown and cordoning off of nearby streets, including Ponton Road. Police confirmed the “loud bang” heard in the vicinity was the result of a controlled detonation to neutralize the potential threat.
“We’re aware of speculation online about an incident near the U.S. Embassy,” the Metropolitan Police posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Cordons are in place as a precaution while officers investigate.”
Embassy and Police Coordination
The U.S. Embassy released a statement assuring the public of their cooperation with local authorities and urging people to follow updates from the Metropolitan Police. Those inside the embassy were kept on lockdown for 90 minutes as officers and firefighters addressed the situation.
No Immediate Terror Link
Initial investigations revealed no evidence linking the package to terrorism, according to reports from The Guardian. However, the police have maintained a cautious stance, keeping cordons in place as inquiries continue.
A Tense Morning in London
Nine Elms, a bustling district in southwest London near the River Thames, was brought to a standstill as emergency teams responded to the scene. Witnesses described the situation as “serious,” with heightened security in and around the embassy.
As of now, the Metropolitan Police have not provided further details, and the investigation remains ongoing.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vigilance required to ensure public safety in high-profile areas.