A school in Southampton, Hampshire, was placed on lockdown on Monday, 24 March, due to reports of a man seen carrying two knives in close proximity to the premises. St Mark’s C of E School implemented the lockdown protocol around 3.20pm after the situation escalated, causing pupils to hide under their desks following a message broadcasted over the tannoy system. Parents present at the school were also reported to have been confined inside the building during the unfolding incident.
Hampshire Police responded swiftly to the reports received at approximately 3pm, concerning a 44-year-old male observed with the knives walking in Malmesbury Road. Following their arrival, officers arrested the man, which led to the lifting of the lockdown around 3.30pm. Authorities confirmed that there were no injuries reported related to this incident.
A parent who experienced the lockdown firsthand shared her account with the Southern Daily Echo, describing the scene as "madness," with children hiding beneath tables while the tannoy announced "lockdown." She expressed concern regarding the potential impact such an incident could have on the children's mental health, deeming the situation "a bit bizarre."
In a statement, a spokesperson from Hampshire Police affirmed that multiple reports were received about the man with the knives and confirmed the arrest. The police did not disclose further details regarding the nature of the man’s actions or any potential motives.
The lockdown at St Mark’s C of E School reflects the heightened security measures that schools may adopt in response to perceived threats, prioritising student safety in potentially dangerous situations. The incident has drawn attention to the challenges and fears faced by both students and parents in school environments, particularly in the face of such alarming events.
Source: Noah Wire Services