Boy arrested after attack on Sikh worshippers at Gurdwara in Gravesend

A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following an attack on a Sikh church in Kent.

According to a police report, on Thursday evening “a man armed with a bladed weapon” entered the Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend and “attempted to attack those present”.

It was a “very intense and dangerous” incident, an eyewitness who was involved in handcuffing the attacker told Sky News.

There were children present and it could have been “much worse,” the witness added.

“A group of us did our best to keep the situation under control for as long as possible and to prevent harm to the public.”

While two women were treated for cuts and bruises, no one was seriously injured.

At 8.10pm, officers were called and arrested the boy from Gravesend on suspicion of attempted murder and religiously motivated public disorder.

According to Kent Police, a stabbing weapon was also seized at the scene.

They are not looking for anyone else.

Detective Superintendent Ian Dyball said: “We understand the public’s concerns about the events at the Gurdwara but are treating it as an isolated incident.

“Patrols will remain in the area to provide reassurance and we thank the public for their continued support and assistance.”