A significant police response unfolded in Mottingham Village on Monday evening following reports of a serious incident that led to multiple arrests by armed officers.
Witnesses said the first images from the scene appeared to show police officers with weapons drawn carrying out an arrest. According to local accounts, two police vehicles stopped a car on Mottingham Road, after which several loud “popping” sounds were heard. Moments later, multiple individuals were seen on the ground being detained.
“Four, maybe five people were on the ground and handcuffed,” one witness reported.
Armed Metropolitan Police officers quickly secured the area, and Mottingham Road was closed near the Lidl supermarket, causing significant traffic congestion. London Ambulance Service crews were also dispatched to the scene and were seen assisting alongside police.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the sounds reported by witnesses were gunshots or provided details about injuries. The Metropolitan Police have described the situation as an active incident, and a large police presence remains in the area as investigations continue.
Residents and motorists are being advised to avoid Mottingham Road while closures remain in place. Police said further information will be released as the situation develops and once it is appropriate to do so.
