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What we know about the London Bridge terror attack so far

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On Saturday night, the third terrorist attack in as many months was carried out on UK soil. 

Here is what we know so far.

What happened?

At 22:08 BST, armed police and ambulances were called to reports of a white van hitting pedestrians on London Bridge

Holly Jones, a BBC reporter who witnessed the incident said: "A white van driver came speeding - probably about 50mph - veered off the road into the crowds of people who were walking along the pavement. He swerved right round me and then hit about five or six people."

The van continued on to Borough Market, just south of London Bridge. There three assailants jumped out of the car and began stabbing people with knives. From witness reports, it appears as though bars and restaurants were targeted. According to several sources, the attackers were wearing suicide vests, but these vests were later established as hoaxes.

The three attackers were shot dead by police within 8 minutes of the incident being reported.

How many victims were there?

So far, there have been 7 fatalities. Around 50 more people are being treated for injuries in 5 hospitals across the capital city, some of which are in critical condition.

None of the victims have been named yet. However, two French citizens and two Australian citizens have been affected.

Are there any details about the attackers?

Few details have emerged so far. One attacker was reportedly wearing a red top. Images of another show a blue Arsenal shirt with camouflage trousers.

Police believe that they have caught all of the attackers. However, London Bridge remains closed and armed police continue to have a strong presence in the area.

Sunday morning saw the arrest of 12 people at an address in Barking, East London, in relation to the attack.

What is happening now?

The Counter Terrorism Command are leading an investigation into Saturday night's events. London Bridge will remain closed and armed police are sweeping the area. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has said that there will be an increased police presence in the city.

London Bridge overground station is closed, as well as London Bridge and Borough Market underground stations. 

People who are seriously concerned about a friend or relative can ring one of the following emergency lines: 0800 096 1233 or 020 7158 0197

People with photos or videos relating to the incident can upload them HERE to aid the police investigation.

Reactions

Prime Minister Theresa May said "Our thoughts are with those who are caught up in these dreadful events." There has been a COBRA meeting this morning and in an official statement outside Downing Street she called for internet "safe spaces" for potential terrorists to be abolished.

Jeremy Corbyn, Labour leader, has praised the emergency services.

 

Tim Farron, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has also expressed respect for the emergency services.

Campaigning for the General Election has been suspended by the Labour and Conservative parties after this latest attack.

US President, Donald Trump, has tweeted his support.

 

Last month's terrorist attack, on 22nd May, saw a bomb detonated in the foyer of Manchester Arena at the end of an Ariana Grande concert. US popstar, Ariana, also tweeted her support.

 

Grande is due to perform for a tribute concert, One Love, in light of last month's attacks in Manchester tonight.




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