Acid Attack on Police in Barnet Drugs Raid
The Met is hailing local heroes after members of the public rushed to help officers injured in a shocking acid attack during a drugs raid in Barnet yesterday.
Burns and Bravery at Industrial Unit
At around 1:50pm on Wednesday, Metropolitan Police officers swooped on an industrial unit in Dale Close, Barnet, to execute a drugs warrant. Suddenly, a corrosive substance – believed to be sulphuric acid – was sprayed, causing 11 Specialist Firearms Command officers to suffer burn injuries.
All injured officers were rushed to hospital. Thankfully, they have since been discharged, though some still need further treatment. Colleagues and the Met continue to offer full support as they recover at home.
Community Cheers as Police Called ‘the Public’
“I want to pay tribute and pass on the thanks of the Metropolitan Police to the brave locals who came rushing to assist,” said Chief Superintendent Roy Smith. “By providing water and opening their homes for first aid, they showed true compassion. This proves Sir Robert Peel’s motto from 1829 remains just as vital today: ‘The police are the public and the public are the police.’”
Commander Kyle Gordon, head of the Specialist Firearms Command, added, “Our officers showed immense bravery putting themselves in harm’s way. Thankfully none of the 11 were seriously hurt and all should make a full recovery. We will keep supporting them as they continue their vital work keeping London safe.”
Four Arrested as Investigation Continues
- A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of class B drug supply and GBH against police officers.
- A 30-year-old man faces the same charges and remains in custody.
- A 21-year-old suspect, also with similar charges, is still in hospital for burn treatment.
- A 32-year-old man was arrested for conspiracy to supply class B drugs and GBH, currently receiving hospital treatment for a foot injury sustained during the raid.
The Directorate of Professional Standards has reported the incident, triggering an Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation into the foot injury sustained by one suspect.
The Met vows to continue enquiries as the fallout from the dangerous drugs operation unfolds.
