A police boat carrying armed officers has crashed into a bridge in central London, injuring five, the Metropolitan Police said.
At around 3.40pm on Friday afternoon, a boat from the Met’s Marine Policing Unit struck Westminster Bridge.
A number of officers entered the water but were recovered and have been seen being treated by paramedics on a rigid black inflatable boat moored to the side of the river.
Officers have taped off a section of the bridge overlooking the Houses of Parliament.
A large number of police officers, fire crews and ambulances are on the scene, with traffic across the bridge at a standstill.
A spokesperson for the Met Police said: “We understand five officers were injured and are receiving treatment.
“We await an update on the extent of their injuries.
“At this stage, we don’t believe any members of the public were involved or injured.
“The circumstances of the incident will be thoroughly reviewed, but at this stage our priority is the wellbeing of the officers involved.”
A Port of London Authority spokesperson said: “We are aware of an incident involving a police vessel at Westminster Bridge.
“We are supporting the response and providing assistance where needed, working closely with the Metropolitan Police, HM Coastguard and partner agencies to manage the situation.”
A police helicopter and an air ambulance were circling above.
Entrances three and four to Westminster Underground station have been shut, Transport for London has confirmed.
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