According to a BBC story citing the police, a man was detained outside Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, May 2, after he allegedly threw suspected shotgun shells into the palace grounds. At around 19:00 (local time), the individual was taken into custody by police, and the area around the palace was closed off. The incident occurs just four days before King Charles III is crowned, and the coronation procession rehearsals are set for later that evening. The individual was detained on the basis of a possible offensive weapon possession charge, according to the Metropolitan Police of London. According to the media source, a controlled explosion was conducted as a precaution following a specialist examination.
“At this time, we are not treating the matter as terror-related”
Police Chief Superintendent Joseph McDonald said, “Officers worked immediately to detain the man and he has been taken into police custody. There have been no reports of any shots fired, or any injuries to officers or members of the public.” He added, “Officers remain at the scene and further inquiries are ongoing.” Following an evaluation by experts, a controlled explosion was conducted as a precaution, according to BBC. The man allegedly tossed a number of objects, including what the police believe to be shotgun ammunition, into the grounds of Buckingham Palace as he approached its gates, according to the police.
He was also “found to be in possession of a suspicious bag,” said the Metropolitan Police, in a statement. It added, “At this time, we are not treating the matter as terror-related.” The King and Queen Consort were reportedly not at Buckingham Palace when the incident occurred. Buckingham Palace has not yet provided a response. This occurs while traffic on the Mall leading to the palace has been restricted in advance of Saturday’s crowning. () The coronation of King Charles will be the first in Britain in 70 years, and London is expected to be packed with spectators, including the tens of thousands of ceremonial soldiers who will march in the parade from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.
