The attack occurred on Dean Street, near its junction with Oxford Street, close to the offices of Private Eye. The cab driver reported that they were stationary in traffic when the shot was fired, striking the rear window of the vehicle.

Thankfully, neither Hislop nor the driver sustained any injuries in the incident.

Hislop has been the editor of Private Eye since 1986, and the magazine is known for its satirical articles, jokes, cartoons, and in-depth investigations into politicians and powerful individuals. Over the years, Hislop has been regarded as one of the most frequently sued figures in English legal history.

The Metropolitan Police have launched an investigation and are currently keeping an open mind regarding the motive for the attack.

A police spokesperson said: “Police were called at 10:10hrs on Tuesday, 1 October to a report of a firearms discharge on Dean Street, Westminster. The driver of a London black taxi reported he was stationary in traffic when a shot was fired towards his vehicle, striking the window. There were no injuries. An investigation has been launched.”

Currently, no arrests have been made, and police enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.