Armed police officers detained a popular Twitch streamer and twelve other individuals following a disturbance involving what appeared to be a firearm near one of London's most iconic landmarks.
Live Stream Interrupted by Armed Response
The incident unfolded on the evening of Saturday, 4 January, when the streamer, known online as Krimoe, was broadcasting live to his followers from Westminster Bridge. According to reports, the content creator was imitating a rapper from Atlanta, USA, and at one point pretended to fire what witnesses described as a toy gun.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police, including armed units, responded swiftly to public reports of a group of men seen with a firearm in the area. The police intervention occurred at approximately 10:50 pm, bringing the live stream to an abrupt end as the streamer was detained.
Thirteen Released Under Investigation
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a total of 13 people were arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm in a public place. A force spokesperson provided details, stating: "Police were called at 1.50pm on Saturday, January 3 close to Westminster Bridge following reports of a group of men carrying a firearm."
The spokesperson added, "Officers attended quickly and arrested 13 men on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm in a public place. They have since been released under investigation as enquiries continue." This indicates that while all individuals have been released from custody, the police investigation into the incident remains active.
Security in the Shadow of Parliament
The event took place in a highly sensitive security zone, adjacent to the Houses of Parliament and the Elizabeth Tower, home to the Big Ben bell. The area is under constant surveillance and has a significant police presence due to its political significance and history as a target for threats.
Incidents involving imitation firearms are treated with extreme seriousness by UK police forces, as they can cause public alarm and risk a potentially lethal response if mistaken for a real weapon. The decision to deploy armed officers highlights the standard protocol for such reports in central London.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the legal ramifications of possessing replica weapons in public, especially in the capital's most secure districts. The Metropolitan Police continue their enquiries into the circumstances of the incident.
