Several schools in Bromley have advised pupils to go straight home after classes today (April 4) following unverified rumours circulating on social media about a potential acid attack in Bromley High Street. Despite no incident being reported and no credible threat identified, local authorities are taking precautionary measures.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that they are aware of the rumours and have deployed officers to the area as a precaution. A message sent from the Bromley Schools and Youth Co-ordinator Sergeant was shared with families by school offices, urging children not to loiter in the town centre after school.
Statement from the Bromley Schools and Youth Co-ordinator Sergeant:
“We have been made aware from several schools within the borough where students have raised concern around circulation on social media about potential acid attacks in Bromley centre this afternoon.
We are reviewing the intelligence and at this stage have not established where it has originated from and how genuine the threat could be.
We already have a policing plan regarding end-of-term policing within Bromley, which is currently underway with officers present in the high street and at key transport hubs.
Could pupils be requested not to attend Bromley High Street on leaving school and not to loiter around the area? A police presence will be in the location, and you may be requested to leave the area.
Those who need to attend Bromley centre as a transport hub are recommended to go home as soon as possible from the location.”
Increased Police Presence in Bromley
In response to the situation, officers are stationed at Bromley High Street and key transport hubs to monitor the area and ensure public safety. Although the Metropolitan Police have not issued a formal public alert, they are actively reviewing the situation and gathering intelligence.
Despite the lack of a confirmed threat, schools that are still in session before the Easter break have been asked to advise students to avoid the town centre and proceed directly home.
Community Reactions and Safety Advice
Parents have expressed concern on social media, questioning the origin and validity of the rumours. Some have praised the schools for being proactive, while others have called for clearer communication from the police.
One parent commented, “It’s good that the schools are being cautious, but it’s also worrying to think that rumours like this can cause so much anxiety.”
While the threat has not been substantiated, residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police by calling 101.
For those who rely on Bromley as a transport hub, the advice is to avoid loitering and to travel directly home.
The situation is being closely monitored, and the public is encouraged to follow updates from the Metropolitan Police for any new developments.
