Woman arrested after four stabbed in central London

Four men were stabbed in Covent Garden, central London, on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Metropolitan Police. The victims, aged 34, 39, 42, and 52, were transported to hospitals by road. Two men remain hospitalized with injuries deemed not life-threatening or life-altering, while the other two have been discharged. A 47-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and assault.

The police believe this to be a mental health-related incident, with Ch Supt Jason Stewart reassuring the community that it is isolated. A visible police presence remains in the area while evidence is gathered. London Air Ambulance was part of the emergency service response, though the victims were all transported to hospitals by road.

St Mungo's homeless center, located nearby, has been cleared of a cordon. A spokesperson for St Mungo's could not confirm involvement at this stage, stating their thoughts are with those affected. One witness reported the woman stabbing random people before being arrested by police. Another witness saw the stabbings occur outside the Shaftesbury Theatre before the woman entered Endell Street.

A nearby barber shop employee helped one of the victims call the police. The police presence is expected to remain in the area while the investigation continues.