Yahoo News Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after police officer attacked with knives in Clapham
A Met Police officer has been attacked with two knives during an emergency call in south-west London.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after the "shocking incident" in Clapham on Tuesday evening.
Officers had been called to reports of a man causing a disturbance in Lynette Avenue shortly after 9pm.
They spoke to a 35-year-old man outside the address but he tried to leave, Scotland Yard said.
When a female officer tried to prevent him from leaving, the man pulled out two knifes out and attacked her with them.
Her protective clothing stopped her from being stabbed. She then pulled out a Taser and discharged it, before chasing the man with other officers.
Chief Superintendent Simon Messinger, of the 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.”
A police spokesman added: "Despite the attack, the officer calmly drew her Taser and discharged it before pursuing the suspect along with colleagues.
"The man was arrested at nearby Clapham Common 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.
"Work continues to locate the knives that the man was seen in possession of and discarded between Lynette Avenue and Clapham Common.
"The officer did not require hospital treatment."
