A British serviceman is fighting for his life following a brutal knife attack just yards from Brompton Barracks in Chatham, Kent. The attack, which has shocked the local community, bears chilling similarities to the 2013 murder of Fusilier Lee Rigby and has raised urgent concerns about military security.
At around 6pm on July 23, the soldier, who is in his 40s, was ambushed less than 200 metres from the barracks. The attacker, masked and wearing a NASA bomber jacket, approached on a red moped before launching a frenzied knife assault.
The soldier was stabbed more than 70 times with two kitchen knives. Witnesses reported seeing the attacker lick blood from the blades in a disturbing display. Bystanders rushed to provide first aid until emergency services arrived.
The injured soldier was airlifted to hospital, where he remains in serious but conscious condition. Reports indicate he is able to speak despite his grave wounds.
Kent Police swiftly arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder. Authorities believe the suspect was specifically targeting military personnel, leading to increased security measures around the barracks and nearby areas frequented by servicemen and women.
Given the unsettling parallels to the Lee Rigby attack, investigators are keeping all possibilities open, including terrorism. National security agencies are closely involved in the ongoing probe.
An Army spokesperson expressed deep concern for the injured soldier and called for public support of the investigation. “Our thoughts are with the soldier and their family during this incredibly difficult time. We are working closely with Kent Police to understand the full circumstances of this attack,” the spokesperson said.
Kent Police have sealed off the area near Sally Port Gardens and increased patrols. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.
Originally published by UKNIP.
