British police officers executed a controlled explosion near the US embassy in south London on Friday after discovering a suspicious package in the area. Authorities confirmed that the “loud bang” heard by locals was the result of a controlled detonation carried out by police to neutralize the threat.
London’s Metropolitan Police stated that their investigation into the package is ongoing and that the area has been cordoned off as a precautionary measure. “Enquiries are still ongoing and cordons will remain in place for the time being,” the police force said in an update posted on X.
Local authorities are investigating a suspicious package outside the U.S. Embassy in London. Met Police are present and have closed Ponton Road out of an abundance of caution. We will provide further updates when available. Please monitor @metpoliceuk for updates.
— U.S. Embassy London (@USAinUK) November 22, 2024
The incident occurred south of the River Thames, where a large police presence was deployed following the discovery of the package. Authorities confirmed that they were aware of online speculation regarding the event but have not provided further details at this time.
The US embassy, located in the area, also issued a statement on social media, acknowledging the situation and confirming that a nearby road had been closed as a precautionary measure. “The road has been closed out of an abundance of caution,” the embassy said in its update, reassuring the public that the situation was being handled by local law enforcement.
The controlled explosion and subsequent police activity are part of standard procedures for handling suspicious packages, particularly in sensitive locations such as embassies. While the situation has raised concerns, no injuries or further threats have been reported.
Authorities have not yet revealed the nature of the package or whether it was intended to cause harm, and investigations are continuing. The area around the embassy remains secured as inquiries progress.