A Saudi national in his 40s was stabbed during an attempted robbery in London's Mayfair district on Thursday evening. The incident occurred around 9:38 p.m. in Berkeley Square, a well-known area featuring Georgian townhouses and exclusive establishments.
Metropolitan Police officers responded to reports of the stabbing and found the victim with injuries that were deemed non-life-threatening. He received treatment at the scene before being transported to a hospital, where he remains.
A 58-year-old man was apprehended at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, possession of an offensive weapon, and attempted robbery. The suspect was also taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
The Saudi Embassy in the UK confirmed the incident and stated it is cooperating with British authorities. A spokesperson for the embassy said they are closely monitoring the victim's condition and coordinating care, while also emphasizing the need for a swift investigation and accountability for the perpetrator. The embassy also advised citizens to exercise caution and avoid carrying valuables in public.
Police are continuing their inquiries to establish the full circumstances of the attack. The Metropolitan Police stated that tackling knife crime and serious violence is a priority and that this incident appears to be isolated, with no indication of an ongoing risk to the wider public. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police, quoting reference 7446/03SEP.
Reports from earlier in the year indicated that the area around Berkeley Square has experienced a high rate of robberies and street crime. Official figures suggested a significantly higher likelihood of becoming a victim of crime in this locale compared to other parts of the capital.