Security guard disarms knifeman after girl, 11, and mother, 34, stabbed in Leicester Square

 

A shop security guard recounted how he disarmed a man wielding a knife after an 11-year-old girl and her 34-year-old mother were stabbed in London's Leicester Square. Abdullah, 29, explained that he "heard a scream," immediately "jumped on" the attacker who was targeting the child, and then restrained him, successfully taking the knife away.

Abdullah recounted witnessing a child being stabbed and immediately attempting to help her, saying, "It's my duty to save them." He and his colleagues provided first aid to the child before the police arrived just four minutes after the attack on Monday morning.

The Metropolitan Police reported that the girl will need hospital treatment, although her injuries are not life-threatening. Her mother sustained minor injuries. A 32-year-old man was arrested at the scene, and officers are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident. There is no indication that the attack is terror-related, and police believe the suspect and victims were not previously acquainted.

"I jumped on him, grabbed the hand holding the knife, and forced him to the ground. I held him down and took the knife away," he recounted.

"A few more people joined in, and we held him until the police arrived, which took about three to four minutes. Then, they took him into custody."

The police commended the courage of those who intervened.

"This is a horrific incident, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families," said Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah.

"We will continue to support them in the coming days and weeks.

"I want to acknowledge the members of the public, including local business staff, who bravely intervened in this situation.

"They put themselves in harm's way and demonstrated the best of London."