An Ealing officer who was involved in a dramatic arrest of a knife-wielding man has been injured during the incident, police have confirmed.
Officers descended outside Ealing Broadway station at around 8pm on Wednesday (February 8) after reports from residents of of a man leaving his house with a knife.
A search began for the male, who was eventually found and approached by police at around 8.45pm in The Mall.
Several officers and police vans were sent to the scene where the man was detained and arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and assaulting a police officer.
Today (February 9) it emerged one of Ealing’s Proactive Team’s officers injured his hand during the arrest, which saw police seize a 10cm blade.
After concerns from Ealing residents, the Met confirmed that it was "not a terror related incident".
Ealing Metropolitan Police's Chief Inspector Kandohla said: "Officers risked their own safety to ensure that this male was detained before he could injure anyone.
"There is no indication that this incident is linked to terrorism.
"It appears from the initial information received that the male was carrying a knife due to fears for his own safety."
He added: "However let me be clear, carrying a knife for any reason is unacceptable."
"Our thoughts remain with the officer who was injured doing his job, keeping Ealing safe, we wish him a speedy recovery."
Regarding the incident, a spokesman for the force said: "We were called just after 8pm to Ealing Broadway station due to concerns for a man in possession of a knife.
"He was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and for assaulting a police officer and taken to a west London police station."
Gemma Pollard, who photographed officers in action, told getwestlondon she saw "seven police cars outside Natwest".
'Brave and best police officers' praised as well-wishers send thoughts
Members of the community praised the actions of the police and took to social media to show their encouragement.
Jags Sanghera wrote: "Well done Ealing MPS.
"As always, there when the community needed you most.
"Brave and best police officers in the world."
Caroline Brown added: "Best wishes to the officers involved".
Alexandra MacLeod wrote: "Best wishes to the officer injured protecting the public and much appreciation to all officers involved. Scary stuff."
An investigation is currently underway and anyone with information regarding the incident should contact police on 101 quoting crime reference 2503120/17
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