'Suspicious package' found outside US Embassy in London
Authorities reported that the package was later detonated in a safe and controlled manner.
November 22, 2024, 6:18 in the morning
LONDON -- Authorities reported that a suspicious package was found outside the U.S. Embassy in London on Friday morning.
The London Metropolitan Police quickly shut down Ponton Road near the embassy as a precaution, as stated in their announcement, before carrying out a controlled detonation.
“The Metropolitan Police acknowledged the online rumors regarding an event near the US Embassy in Nine Elms. They have set up perimeter barriers in the area as a safety measure while they look into a potentially dangerous package.”
Around an hour later, officials provided an update on the situation following online reports of a "loud noise."
Firefighters are positioned near the U.S. Embassy as an investigation continues following an event in London, England, on November 22, 2024. REUTERS/Mina Kim
The police have stated that the loud noise heard in the area recently was due to a controlled explosion conducted by their team. Investigations are still in progress, and barriers will remain set up for the time being.
Police reported that the embassy resumed its regular activities shortly after the package was disposed of.
"The US Embassy has resumed regular operations, but all public appointments—including visa appointments, passport services, and other services for American citizens—scheduled for November 22 have been cancelled," stated the Met Police.
In January 2018, the U.S. embassy in London transitioned to a newly constructed building specifically designed for its use. This impressive 12-story facility, which features a surrounding moat, was built at a cost of around $1 billion. The funding for this project came entirely from the sale of other U.S. government properties located in London, as stated by the U.S. government.
