London terror attack: Residents open homes, offer food to those affected
LONDON -- As in Manchester two weeks ago, Londoners were quick to offer assistance to those caught up in the attacks at London Bridge and Borough Market.
Metropolitan Police said seven people died and more than 40 others were injured in two terror incidents in Central London.
The events unfolded around 10 p.m. GMT on Saturday when a vehicle mowed down pedestrians along the London Bridge. Police said three suspects exited the vehicle at the nearby Borough Market and attempted to stab people. The three suspects were shot and killed by police.
Phaldip Singh, who describes himself as an entrepreneur and youth activist, tweeted that Sikh Gurdwaras were open to provide food and shelter for those affected by the attacks. Gurdwaras are places of worship that traditionally serve simple meals to anyone, regardless of their religion.
The Royal Oak pub in Southwark opened its doors to people evacuated from hotels inside the area cordoned off by police. At least one minicab company tweeted an offer of free rides for people stranded in the area.
Julis Dein, 22, also offered people in the area shelter for the night. "If anyone is stranded, I have a space in Central London, near to Borough Market, Vauxhall, London bridge you [can] stay," he tweeted.
Others offered assistance for people near London Bridge, Streatham and Kennington Lane.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the incidents on Saturday, describing them as "a deliberate and cowardly attack on innocent Londoners."
He issued a statement early Sunday in which he urged the public to remain calm as the situation is still unfolding.
"This was a deliberate and cowardly attack on innocent Londoners and visitors to our city enjoying their Saturday night," Khan said. "I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. There is no justification whatsoever for such barbaric acts."
