A man arrested on suspicion of assaulting police officers in south-east London has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after claiming he had ingested drugs, the Metropolitan Police has confirmed. The incident unfolded on Penge High Street on Thursday evening when officers responded to reports of a group of shoplifters at approximately 6.30pm
After a foot chase, officers arrested one man involved in the suspected shoplifting. However, while the man was being transported to the hospital, two officers in the police van began to feel unwell, prompting concerns about possible chemical exposure.
Emergency Response to Possible Chemical Exposure
The police van transporting the man stopped on Hayes Lane in Bromley as the officers’ condition worsened. Fearing a potential chemical exposure, emergency services—including ambulance and fire crews—were called to the scene.
The Metropolitan Police has since “stood down” the incident, clarifying that there was no confirmed chemical exposure. Nevertheless, the two officers were taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure. Both officers are expected to recover.
The arrested man, however, remains in a serious condition in the hospital after claiming he had ingested drugs during his arrest. The nature of his condition is still under investigation.
Investigation Ongoing
The Metropolitan Police has not released further details about the man’s identity or the specific circumstances of his arrest. A spokesperson for the Met said that inquiries are ongoing and that the situation is being closely monitored.
The incident caused significant disruption in the Bromley area, with Hayes Lane being temporarily closed off as emergency crews attended to the situation. Local residents were advised to avoid the area during the height of the incident.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on determining the full circumstances surrounding the arrest and the condition of the officers involved. Updates on the man’s condition and any further developments are expected in the coming days.
