A major emergency search operation is currently underway on the River Thames near Chelsea Embankment following reports of a person entering the water this evening. The alarm was raised shortly after 7:30pm, prompting a large multi-agency response.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB), London Ambulance Service (LAS), and Metropolitan Police quickly arrived at the scene. The National Police Air Service (NPAS) also deployed a helicopter to provide crucial aerial support for the search efforts.
Specialist fireboats were dispatched immediately, while crews from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) launched lifeboats from central London to assist in the intensive search operation. Eyewitnesses reported a strong emergency services presence, with flashing blue lights and officers coordinating activities on both land and water.
“We were called at 7:36pm to reports of a person in the water near Chelsea Embankment,” a London Fire Brigade spokesperson said. “Crews, including our fire boat, are assisting in the search along with partners from other emergency services.”
The search has been intensified with the deployment of specialist drones equipped with thermal imaging technology to scan the river for heat signatures. Additionally, Hazardous Area Response Team (HAART) medics are using thermal binoculars to examine downstream areas.
The Metropolitan Police Marine Unit is conducting a detailed bank-to-bank sweep with support from RNLI lifeboats, working against fading daylight and increasing challenges.
In a related development, a separate search is underway near Albert Bridge following reports of another person possibly in the water. It remains unclear if the two incidents are connected.
Police have cordoned off sections of Chelsea Embankment, advising the public to keep clear to allow emergency teams to operate safely.
UKNIP has contacted the Metropolitan Police and HM Coastguard for further information. This is a developing story and updates will be provided as more details become available.
Originally published by UKNIP.
