Two men have been arrested following a stabbing near a mosque on Plumstead Road, SE18, on Friday afternoon, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:00 PM, prompting a swift response from emergency services, including armed police, due to the proximity to a place of worship and reports that one of the suspects had initially fled into the building.
A police spokesperson said:
“Police were called to reports of a stabbing in Plumstead Road, SE18, at around 13:00hrs on Friday, 11 April.
Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service. One man in his 30s was taken to hospital for stab wounds. There is no update on the man’s injuries at this time.
There have been two arrests. One man in his 30s was arrested for grievous bodily harm. Another man in his 20s was arrested for grievous bodily harm. They remain in custody.
Enquiries continue.”
Armed Officers Deployed to Mosque
The presence of armed police outside a local mosque sparked concern among worshippers and passersby. Authorities have since clarified that one of the suspects fled into the mosque, where he was swiftly located and removed by officers.
There were no injuries reported inside the mosque, and police have confirmed the building was not the scene of the attack.
Community Reactions and Road Closures
Multiple police cordons were put in place along Plumstead Road, leading to travel disruption and local diversions. The incident occurred during Friday prayers, one of the busiest times of the week for local worshippers.
Local residents have expressed shock, but many praised the swift and professional response of the emergency services.
“It was scary at first seeing armed police, but they handled it quickly. The mosque stayed calm, and thankfully no one inside was hurt,” said one bystander.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains ongoing, and Met Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses and any relevant CCTV or dashcam footage from the area.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 101, quoting reference for Plumstead Road, 11 April, or to reach out anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Updates will follow as more details emerge.
