Police detained the 16 year old outside Fulham Broadway this afternoon after he was spotted carrying what appeared to be a firearm — later believed to be imitation firearm.
The boy, who was dressed in costume and reportedly on his way to the London Anime & Gaming Con, was arrested at the scene following a swift police response shortly after the Chelsea football match.
The boy is believed to have been on his way to a comic convention. The circumstances of this incident remain under investigation but it is an offence to carry an imitation firearm. The weapon was realistic and was on display, causing alarm to passers-by.
Incident Quickly Contained
Witnesses described seeing the man in tactical-style clothing before officers intervened. A suspected imitation firearm was recovered.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances, but there is no wider threat to the public.
Convention Statement
The London Anime & Gaming Con, which is running from 29 to 31 August 2025, has stressed the incident was not connected to the convention itself.
Organisers reminded attendees that realistic replica weapons are not permitted as part of cosplay outfits and should never be carried in public.
Police Statement
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said:
“A 16-year-old boy remains in police custody after he was arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm.
“The arrest occurred in Fulham Broadway at 14:41hrs on Saturday, 30 August after officers received information about a boy displaying a weapon and walking towards a crowded area.
“No one was injured in the incident.”
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