Stab vest saves officer in knife attack

Police had been called to reports of a man causing a disturbance at an address in Clapham shortly after 9pm.

A 35-year-old man was identified as being involved in the incident but as officers spoke to him outside the address, he attempted to leave the scene. When a female officer tried to intervene, the man produced two knives and attempted to stab the officer at least twice in the stomach, striking her protective vest.

Despite the attack, the officer was able to discharge her Taser at the suspect as he ran off and gave pursuit, together with several colleagues. The officer did not require hospital treatment.

The man was arrested at Clapham Common shortly after on suspicion of attempted murder, possession of an offensive weapon and a public order offence. He remains in custody at a South London police station.

The knives have not yet been recovered.

Chief Superintendent Simon Messinger of the MPS Central South Command Unit said: “This was a truly shocking incident that could have easily had devastating consequences and I have no doubt that the intentions of this man were to seriously harm one of our colleagues.

“It is a testament to her bravery that, despite the attack, this officer – along with her colleagues – remained focused in detaining and disarming a dangerous man. She then completed her shift and, having spoken to her, she’ll be back helping keep the streets of south London safe once again today.

“Importantly, it also demonstrates how effective, and unfortunately necessary, a police officer’s protective equipment is as this has potentially saved her life.”