Woman detained after four men stabbed in Covent Garden lunchtime attack
Police say a 47‑year‑old woman, suspected of carrying an offensive weapon, was arrested after four men were injured in a midday assault in the tourist hub.
At about 12.30 pm on Wednesday, officers from the Metropolitan Police responded to reports of a stabbing in Covent Garden, one of London’s busiest tourist districts. A 47‑year‑old woman was taken into custody on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and assault after four men were stabbed.
The victims, aged 34, 39, 42 and 52, were rushed to hospital. Two have since been discharged, while the remaining two remain in care with injuries that are not considered life‑threatening or life‑changing.
Police recovered a pair of scissors at the scene, which they identified as the weapon used. Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart described the incident as “an isolated mental health related incident”. He added that the case highlights the persistent challenge of knife‑related offences in London, even as overall levels of violence have been falling.
Witness accounts and police response
Staff at a nearby restaurant said the woman was locally known as a homeless person who often spent time in the area. A waiter, who gave his name as Ahmad, told reporters that officers pursued the woman while she held a knife and employed a taser to compel her to drop it. He said, "They were chasing away the lady who had a knife in her hand." and later added, "I saw the lady get tased by the police, it was the only way they could get her to drop the knife." The Metropolitan Police have not confirmed whether a taser was actually deployed.
Images from the scene showed an air‑ambulance helicopter landing in Trafalgar Square and police tape cordoning off shops and outdoor seating along the street.
Broader context
While shootings remain rare in the United Kingdom because of strict firearms legislation, the government continues to grapple with offences involving knives and other sharp instruments. The attack took place in a heavily visited neighbourhood, a short walk from the Royal Opera House and several major theatres.
The woman remains in custody while investigations continue. The incident has also revived discussion about the adequacy of mental‑health support for individuals known to frequent public spaces, a concern that has grown since the pandemic. First reported by the Metropolitan Police.
