Statement from Assistant Commissioner Sutherland following the conclusion of the second inquest into terrorist attack at Fishmongers' Hall

Statement from Assistant Commissioner Alistair Sutherland following the conclusion of the second inquest into terrorist attack at Fishmongers' Hall:

“During this inquest into the death of the attacker at Fishmongers’ Hall in 2019, the actions of armed officers were once again rightly scrutinised.

“Once again City of London Police firearms officers  responded to a terrorist attack, arriving first on scene within two minutes of the 999 call to confront an extremely dangerous individual wearing what appeared to be a credible explosive suicide belt, and who had caused the deaths of two innocent young people and seriously injured others whilst armed with knives. They immediately acted to remove others from danger and then had to take decisive action in dealing with an armed and dangerous terrorist, knowing that their own lives were at risk. We routinely rely on our firearms officers to take extraordinarily difficult decisions that they know will be subject to intense public scrutiny and I’m pleased that their actions on that day have been found to be justified. I am very proud of the bravery and professionalism of my officers both inside Fishmongers Hall and on London Bridge, all of whom who were trying to save lives that day. 

“I’d also like to thank all those who responded quickly to support our officers including our armed officer colleagues from the Metropolitan Police Service, the London Ambulance Service and members of the public, as well as and an off-duty British Transport Police officer. There was an effective joint response that day from London’s Emergency Services and indeed the public. All showed bravery and selflessness in coming together to show their determination that the terrorist should be stopped from causing further devastation and injury.

"Finally, I’d like to thank once again the Coroner, His Honour Judge Mark Lucraft QC and the inquest jury, for their work in examining the circumstances surrounding the death of the terrorist."

HHJ Lucraft QC added about the officers involved: "They showed commendable bravery. Lives were saved as well as lost in this terrible attack."