Man Tasered after squirting flammable liquid at four policemen
FOUR policemen were taken to hospital after they were sprayed with flammable liquid in a burning building by an armed attacker.
A man in east London was hit with a Taser after squirting police officers with a flammable liquid
The 39-year-old suspect is being held in custody after the incident in east London that saw a Taser discharged, the Metropolitan Police said.
The policemen were sent to the house in Hartington Road, Walthamstow, at around 4.20pm yesterday afternoon after concerns were raised over the welfare of a man inside.
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "Officers attended and attempted to speak to the man. However, through a window they noticed that a fire had been started inside the address.
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"Police forced entry to the property and found the man in possession of a knife and a bottle of accelerant - the man proceeded to squirt the liquid at officers.
"The man refused to comply with officers' instructions and a Taser was discharged."
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent and grievous bodily harm with intent and taken to hospital.
The suspect was arrested and taken to hospital
He was later transferred to an east London police station for questioning in custody.
The four policemen were taken to hospital suffering the effects of smoke inhalation, but were later discharged. It is understood they escaped without the accelerant igniting.
Concerns were raised over the armed man's welfare
These officers showed great bravery to force entry into this property and bring a dangerous situation to a quick and successful conclusion
Inspector Jonathan Hinder, of Waltham Forest Police, said: "These officers showed great bravery to force entry into this property and bring a dangerous situation to a quick and successful conclusion.
"Without their swift actions, this incident could have had far more serious consequences and it once again demonstrates the dangers officers face as they carry out their daily duties."