The incident prompted a security response, with no reported injuries, while investigations are underway to determine the motive behind the incident.
A man has been arrested after a car crashed into the gates outside Downing Street, the office-residence of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The Metropolitan Police apprehended the individual on suspicion of criminal damage and dangerous driving. According to the reports by BBC, Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in the incident, and investigations are currently underway.
Witnesses observed armed officers with sniffer dogs at the scene, and sections of Whitehall, the main road passing by Downing Street, were cordoned off. Footage of the incident captured the car approaching the entrance before colliding with the gates. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was present in Downing Street at the time but has since departed for a planned visit.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest and stated that inquiries are ongoing. As a precautionary measure, pedestrians were turned away from the surrounding roads, and a heightened police presence was observed in the area. The incident coincided with the departure of many civil servants from government departments in the vicinity.
Images shared on social media depicted a white car with its boot open, forcefully striking the reinforced gates of Downing Street, which are equipped with barriers and solid iron gates for enhanced security measures.
(With PTI Inputs)