London court evacuated as power cut ‘releases cell doors’ | UK | News

A London court was evacuated after a power outage reportedly compromised the security of cells. Security rushed around 60 people out of Thames Magistrates’ Court after the incident on Tuesday afternoon.

At around 2.20 in the afternoon, the electricity and lights went out, then a few minutes later a siren started sounding throughout the building. During the ensuing evacuation, a security guard told the public: “The electricity was cut and all the cell doors were opened.” He added: “This is not a drill.”

Thames Magistrates’ Court has a cell group containing defendants in custody awaiting their individual hearings.

The defendants, accused of violence and possession of a knife, were expected to appear in an east London court on Tuesday.

Shortly after the release, security personnel were seen standing guard outside the courthouse; Lawyers, staff and members of the public were told to leave the nearby Bow Road tube station.

Nearby business owners told the Press Association they had also experienced power outages.