Intu Uxbridge shopping centre and surrounding buildings were evacuated after suspicious package scare on Monday (June 12), which turned out to be a false alarm.
Metropolitan Police attended George Street, to the rear of the shopping centre, after it was called to reports of an unattended package at 2.22pm.
Those caught up in the incident described the scene as “mayhem” as they were evacuated or told to stay inside their buildings.
One bystander said: “We have all been evicted from offices. Roads are being closed. I think it’s (the suspect package) is by Harmon House.
“We all got told to go to the civic centre but people have split into groups to go the the pub or home.”
Police had cordoned off the road and shoppers were unable to enter the nearby Sainsbury's supermarket as a result.
The 607 and A10 bus routes were on diversion after York Road was also closed in both directions.
During the incident, a Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “Officers are in attendance and road closures are in place.
“The Intu Shopping Centre and nearby buildings have been evacuated as a precaution."
Almost two hours after police were called to the scene, intu Uxbridge released a statement, confirming the incident had been a false alarm.
The statement read: “Following the discovery of an unattended package, Metropolitan Police responded very quickly.
“A full investigation confirmed it was a false alarm.
“We’re sorry for any disruption caused and we want to thank customers for their patience.
“Please contact Metropolitan Police for further information on 101.”
Police confirmed a "full stand down" at 4.26pm and confirmed the item was "non-suspicious."
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