Seven males arrested after four others stabbed in south-east London

Seven males have been arrested after four others were stabbed on a busy high street in south-east London, leaving one in a critical condition, police said.

Officers were called to reports of an altercation on Bromley High Street at around 2.15pm, the Metropolitan Police said.

Forensic officers and a crime scene photographer were later seen working inside and outside the KFC restaurant on the High Street and there were evidence markers on the floor.

The fast food chain confirmed a “serious incident” took place inside their restaurant.

Forensic investigators at the scene after four people were stabbed (James Manning/PA)

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Three of them were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while one remains in critical condition, the force said.

A section of Bromley High Street was closed and traffic was slow around the area of the incident on Thursday afternoon, the AA said.

Some 15 bus routes were diverted, including the 61, 208 and 119.

Parts of Elmfield Road and Ethelbert Road were also shut as of Thursday afternoon, and the Church House Gardens park was cordoned off.

A post shared on X in the early afternoon read: “Been watching from my balcony! Endless sirens and all the various emergency services attending.”

London Ambulance Service said it dispatched ambulance crews, a paramedic in a fast response car, an incident response officer and an advanced paramedic to the scene.

A police cordon was set up on Bromley High Street (James Manning/PA)

PA Wire

A Met Police spokesperson said: “Police inquiries continue and there is not believed to be any wider threat to the public.”

A KFC spokesperson said: “We can confirm that a serious incident took place this afternoon in our Bromley High Street restaurant.

“We are working with the police on their ongoing investigation.

“Our priority is supporting our team members and customers at this difficult time.”

Bromley and Biggin Hill MP Peter Fortune said on X: “I am aware of the incident on Bromley High Street this afternoon and I know that residents will have safety concerns.

“The police are in attendance and have made a number of arrests.

“I will remain in close contact with the police as they continue to investigate this incident.”

Anyone with information should to contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 4008/10SEP, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.