The US Embassy in London experienced a lockdown after a suspicious package was found near the building. Police detonated the package in a controlled explosion, causing a loud bang. The area around Nine Elms Lane was cordoned off as emergency responders, including firefighters and the dog squad, arrived at the scene.
Several civilians were evacuated from the building, while staff remained inside during the lockdown. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a controlled explosion was carried out and cordons would remain in place as investigations continued.
Witnesses reported being kept inside the building for hours with little information from the authorities. Some mentioned that visa processing continued smoothly inside the embassy despite the ongoing situation.
The US Embassy issued a statement acknowledging the incident and stated that the police were investigating the package found outside the building. Meanwhile, Gatwick Airport also faced a security incident, leading to the evacuation of a large part of the South Terminal.
The events at both the US Embassy and Gatwick Airport highlight the importance of security measures and the swift response of emergency services in such situations. It is crucial for authorities to ensure the safety of the public and handle potential threats effectively to prevent any harm or disruptions.
