Chaos at Stratford Bus Station as 200 Gather for Fireworks Frenzy
Massive Crowd Sparks Police Response
Police were scrambled at 6.24pm on Monday, 31 October after reports of a crowd setting off fireworks near Stratford Bus Station. Around 200 people were estimated to be in the area, causing serious concern among local residents who called the cops in droves.
Fireworks Fly, Officers Gear Up
Random fireworks were fired off in a busy public spot, forcing Met officers to respond in full protective gear. Backup poured in from across London to help control the chaos. The tense standoff saw a teenage girl arrested after she tried lighting a firework aimed directly at officers.
Close Call With a Pushchair
Thankfully, no injuries were reported. However, a viral video shows a firework exploding dangerously close to a woman pushing a pram. Police say they were not informed of this incident at the time, and neither the Met nor London Ambulance Service received injury reports.
Top Cop Issues Warning
“This was a very challenging situation and I am proud of my officers’ swift action,” said Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, in charge of Newham and Waltham Forest. “Each year, reckless firework use causes panic and risks serious harm. Monday’s event could easily have ended in tragedy. I urge those buying fireworks to use them safely and responsibly.”
For tips on safe firework use, visit the London Fire Brigade.
