A male has been arrested in Abbey Wood after falsely claiming he had a knife during a police encounter.

According to reports, officers attempted to stop a male in Eynsham Drive yesterday, just before 10:30 am (Sunday). The individual fled from the officers, prompting a pursuit.

During the pursuit, the male asserted that he was armed with a knife, leading the police to deploy a taser. However, upon apprehension, it was discovered that the individual did not possess a knife.

The male was subsequently arrested on suspicion of several offences, including breach of bail conditions and being “going equipped.” It was clarified by authorities that he did not have a knife in his possession at the time of the arrest.

Following the arrest, the male was taken to a hospital for treatment of a pre-existing hand injury. After receiving medical attention, he was discharged into police custody, where he remains.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police provided details of the incident, emphasizing the actions taken by officers during the encounter.

On Sunday, 10 March, at approximately 10:25 am, officers attempted to stop a male in Eynsham Drive, SE2. The male made off and was chased on foot by officers. The male stated he had a knife; Taser was discharged, and the male was arrested for numerous offences including breach of bail conditions and going equipped. He was not in possession of a knife. He was taken to hospital for treatment to a pre-existing hand injury before being discharged into police custody where he remains.