A man in his 20s remains in critical condition after a tense explosives threat standoff at a flat on Stanstead Road, Catford. The Metropolitan Police cordoned off the area late on Wednesday night, May 27, following concerns for the man’s welfare.
Specialist officers and negotiators engaged with the man overnight before the situation escalated on Thursday morning, May 28.
The man claimed he had access to explosives, which prompted a major police response. Armed officers, negotiators, and specialist units remained on site throughout the night and into the morning hours. Neighbouring homes were evacuated as a precaution to ensure safety.
At around 7:45 am, the man fell from an upper-floor window of the flat. Emergency services quickly attended the scene and rushed him to hospital. He remains in critical condition with multiple injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang during the incident. This was confirmed to be CS gas released by armed officers attempting to control the situation inside the property.
The incident caused distress among local residents. Michael, a father of three from nearby St Germans Road, said: “It’s scary to see things like this happen. Especially trying to explain to your kids why we can’t use the road, it’s difficult. We heard a loud commotion, no idea what happened but loads and loads of screams.”
Another local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, added: “There were a few bangs.”
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terror-related. No arrests have been made at this time.
The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has been notified about the incident, and a mandatory referral has been submitted to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
Originally published by UKNIP.
