Police say Kent attack 'not terror-related'

Kent Police says the motivation for the knife attack on an Army officer in uniform in Kent on yesterday is not believed to be terror-related.

It's as a man remains in custody today (Wednesday 24 July 2024), after the serious assault on a soldier in Gillingham.

There is an ongoing police presence in the town following the incident in Sally Port Gardens at around 5.55pm on Tuesday 23 July 2024.

Kent Police was called to reports a soldier in uniform, a man in his 40s, had suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds.

He was taken to a hospital for treatment and his condition is currently described as serious but stable.

The suspect, a 24-year-old local man, is reported to have left the scene on a motorcycle and at approximately 6.30pm was located and arrested in Mooring Road, Rochester.

Cordons have been set up at both the scene of the incident and the scene of the arrest, and a number of knives have been seized.

Reassure

Acting Chief Superintendent Richard Woolley of Kent Police said:

"This was an upsetting incident for all concerned and our best wishes go to the victim, his family and those who witnessed the incident.

"Residents will experience an increased police presence in the Gillingham area and I would like to reassure everyone that officers responded quickly to take a man into custody and we do not currently believe anyone else was involved.

"The motivation for the attack is currently unknown and forms part of our ongoing enquiries, although we are exploring the possibility that it may be mental health-related. We are also investigating any possible links between the location and the suspect.

"There is no further information at this time to suggest there are any wider threats to the local community including members of the armed forces."

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