Northolt armed stand-off enters second night of talks – BBC News

Northolt armed stand-off enters second night of talks – BBC News


Media captionFootage shows armed police at the scene, from where Ayshea Buksh reports

Armed police are spending a second night locked in a stand-off with a man thought to be in possession of “dangerous items”.

About 80 residents in Northolt, north-west London, have been forced to spend the night away from their homes which officers continue to negotiate with the man.

There are concerns he has hazardous materials in the property.

A 300m cordon has been in place at Wood End Lane since 01:00 BST on Friday.

Emergency services have not yet attempted to enter the house.

Image copyright PA
Image caption Residents are spending the night away from home after being evacuated by police
Image copyright PA
Image caption Police have been at Wood End Lane since the early hours of Friday

A Met Police spokesman said the priority was to end talks safely and peacefully.

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“There is no suggestion that this incident is terrorist-related nor is it linked to any other ongoing investigation or operation,” he added.

Ealing Council said the vast majority of evacuated residents had made their own arrangements for accommodation but the elderly, vulnerable or those with young children had been placed in bed and breakfasts.

The authority’s leader Julian Bell said: “The safety of our residents is our top priority and council officers will continue to be on hand to give any necessary assistance until the incident has been resolved.”

Image copyright LNP
Image caption The Met said there was “no suggestion that this incident is terrorist-related”
Image copyright PA
Image caption A 300m cordon is in place while armed officers negotiate with the man

BBC reporter Ayshea Buksh said neighbours had told her the man had “aggressive, dangerous dogs”, which was one of the reasons why police were being particularly cautious.

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A woman claiming to be the cousin of the man told the BBC he had recently had a “breakdown”.

The man is believed to be in his 40s and according to several local residents, has regularly been seen walking his four Rottweiler dogs.

Read more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-37742796

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