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Met Releases Footage of Unarmed Officers Tackling Cosplay Teen Outside Stamford Bridge

Police confirm the weapons were imitation props, prompting a Youth Offending Team referral.

Overview

  • Multiple 999 callers reported a person in black tactical gear carrying what appeared to be firearms as ChelseaFulham crowds dispersed.
  • Unarmed match-duty officers intercepted the 16-year-old near Fulham Broadway and restrained him before armed units arrived.
  • Police seized a replica handgun from a holster and an imitation rifle from his backpack, later confirming both were toys.
  • Enquiries found the props had been spray-painted black to look realistic, and the teen said he was heading to a nearby comic convention in costume.
  • He admitted possession of imitation firearms and was referred to the Youth Offending Team, as Met commanders praised the response and warned against realistic cosplay weapons in public spaces.