A series of controlled explosions were carried out in central London after the city’s busiest shopping area was evacuated due to a suspicious vehicle.
Bomb disposal teams executed the detonations as a precautionary measure following the establishment of a cordon around the Regent Street area, according to reports by British media.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the explosions were precautionary, with the situation fully resolved shortly after 2:30 pm. A parked vehicle that initially raised concerns was later deemed non-suspicious, and the incident was “fully stood down,” according to a statement from the police.
Counter-terrorism sources indicated that the incident did not appear to be terror-related.
Earlier, police reported on X: “Road closures are in place in the vicinity of Regent Street and New Burlington Street while officers investigate a suspicious vehicle. Officers have carried out a number of controlled explosions as a precautionary measure.”
Witnesses shared videos and pictures on social media showing shoppers fleeing the area, with a heavy police presence and emergency services on-site. Some reported hearing a loud “boom” nearby as the explosions took place.
Regent Street, one of London’s most iconic thoroughfares, has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including the recent Robbie Williams biopic “Better Man.”
The area is home to flagship stores like Apple, Microsoft, Burberry, and Hamleys, as well as the historic Regent Street Cinema, known as the “birthplace of British cinema.”
As the scene was cordoned off, pedestrians and vehicles were stopped from proceeding through the area. The famous street, which also runs past the BBC’s London HQ, remains a central hub for shopping, entertainment, and tourism.
