In Buckingham Palace, a startling incident unfolded just four days after the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Police say a man was arrested around 7:00 p.m. after approaching the palace gates and throwing a number of objects toward the royal residence, a scene that quickly drew a crowd of onlookers and a rapid response from security forces.
Authorities from the Metropolitan Police confirmed that the individual was taken into custody following the initial disturbance. The material thrown was described as potentially shotgun cartridges, and the items were later examined by experts to determine their nature and any associated risk. At the moment of contact with the public realm, there was an immediate effort to secure the area and prevent any harm, with the object in question being handled under controlled procedures as a precautionary measure.
The police stated that a suspicious bag was involved in the event. Officers cordoned off a portion of the palace forecourt while experts reviewed the scene and assessed the device. The aim was to ensure public safety without provoking unnecessary alarm, and once precautionary steps were complete, the cordon was gradually reduced as the investigation progressed.
Joseph McDonald, chief superintendent of the Metropolitan Police, described the swift and decisive actions taken by officers. He noted that the initial response helped deter any threat and kept nearby pedestrians and drivers out of harm’s way. With the area secured, the streets around the palace were reopened and most of the cordon was lifted as officers continued their inquiries and physical checks around the perimeter.
Authorities emphasized that no armed attack or injuries were reported, and there was no indication of any immediate danger to either officers or bystanders. Investigators are pursuing several lines of inquiry to understand the person involved, the motive behind the act, and any possible links to broader security concerns surrounding the royal residence in the early days following the coronation ceremonies.
Beyond the immediate incident, the area around Buckingham Palace remains a focal point for visitors and residents alike, particularly at a time when crowds gather for public events and royal ceremonies. Security measures are typically heightened during this period, with a visible police presence, surveillance, and crowd management efforts designed to protect both the public and the ceremonial activities taking place in London’s central districts.
The coronation weekend has drawn significant attention to the ceremonies planned for Westminster Abbey and the festive procession that will travel from the temple to the palace. The surrounding precincts have become a hub of activity, with preparations underway for a schedule that blends religious observances with a ceremonial parade. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining safety while ensuring that visitors can experience the events in a respectful and orderly manner.
Officials urge anyone with information related to the event to cooperate with investigators and to report unusual activity or items that could pose a risk. The investigation continues as detectives review security footage, interview witnesses, and map the sequence of events that led to the incident near the royal residence. In the meantime, the public is reminded to stay aware of their surroundings and to follow directions from law enforcement when moving through crowded areas around royal grounds.
As London looks toward the upcoming royal programs, officials stress the importance of vigilance and coordinated effort among police, security teams, and the public. A calm and orderly response helps ensure that important traditions can proceed with minimal disruption, while also reinforcing the sense of safety that residents and visitors rely on in a capital city home to centuries of ceremony and national memory.