Croydon: One stabbed to death and 10 injured in night of violence in south London
A Section 60 Order granting police additional stop and search powers is in place across Croydon
One man has died in a night of violence in south London, the Metropolitan Police said on Friday night.
Officers were called to five reports of stabbings in the Croydon area between 6.56pm and 9.12pm on Friday, and 10 men have been injured, as well as one who died at the scene.
Two have been left fighting for their lives and two more people have been arrested.
Detective Superintendent Nicky Arrowsmith said: "Sadly, tonight we have seen a number of needless and completely abhorrent violent altercations, including one that has tragically resulted in a loss of life.
"Officers will be on patrol throughout the night across the South Area Command Unit, with additional resources from the Violent Crime Taskforce and Territorial Support Group deployed to deter and prevent any further violence.
The Met said there was no information to suggest that all incidents were linked.
A Section 60 Order granting police additional stop and search powers is in place across Croydon, until 8am on Saturday February 6.
Detective Superintendent Arrowsmith added: "I urge anyone who has information that could help police to assist us as we work to investigate these incidents to speak to us as soon as you can.
"Tackling violent crime in London remains the top priority for everyone in the Metropolitan Police Service. We have dedicated resources working to prevent, deter and tackle violence in all its forms, day and night and are utilising all available tactics and powers.
"Our officers continue to work around the clock to identify and pursue offenders, bring perpetrators to justice, support victims, take weapons off the street, engage and reassure the public, and keep our communities safe in London.
"But we are not complacent and cannot do this alone. We work closely with our communities as they are key to understanding and knowing what is occurring locally. We need to hear from anyone who has information about crime, those who carry a weapon, or those who exploit others for gain or revenge, while putting young people's lives at risk- we need this information to help keep London safe."
Additional reporting by PA