London wakes to greater police presence after Russell Square attack

Londoners were waking up to a greater police presence on the streets of the capital on Thursday after a stabbing rampage at Russell Square left one dead and five injured, The Telegraph reported. 

Armed police and other officers were being deployed in response to the attack to provide reassurance to the public.

While no motive has been established yet for the attack, police said terrorism was "one line of inquiry that we should explore".

"As a precautionary measure, Londoners will wake up this morning to notice an increased presence on the streets of officers, including armed officers today," Assistant commissioner Mark Rowley said. 

"We would urge the public to remain calm, alert and vigilant."

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, echoed the call for calm, urging the public to remain "vigilant".

Mr Khan said his "heart goes out to the victims of the incident in Russell Square and their loved ones" after the death of the woman, who has not been identified but is believed to have been in her 60s.

A 19-year-old man is under guard in hospital and police have said said early indications suggested "mental health is a significant factor in this case".

The stabbing attack comes amid heightened fears of a terrorism after a number of attacks across Europe.

Source: MENA