Diners ‘locked in’ at Stratford Nando’s after ‘armed man takes woman hostage’
DINERS were locked in a Nando’s in Stratford, east London this afternoon as armed police responded to reports of a hostage situation.
Officers descended on a property in Romford Road shortly after 1.30pm following reports of an armed man holding a woman against her will. Witnesses reported seeing a large emergency services presence as police blocked diners from leaving through the front door, EssexLive reports. Those inside the restaurant were asked to leave through the emergency exits.
The restaurant closed briefly as police advised staff to lock the doors.
The Metropolitan Police said a man has been arrested and the woman found safe and well.
A force spokeswoman said: "Police were called at 1.33pm to reports of a man believed to be in possession of a firearm holding a woman against her will at a residential address in Romford Road, Stratford.
"Officers, including armed officers, attended and found the victim safe and well.
"A man was arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment. He has been taken to an east London police station.
"No firearm has been recovered at this stage, however officers are continuing to search the address.
"A cordon is in place. Enquiries continue."