Man arrested after woman and two children were stabbed in London

A woman and two children have been stabbed in east London.

The Metropolitan Police say officers were called to First Avenue, Dagenham at around 5.35pm to reports of a stabbing.

A woman, believed to be in her 30s, and two children – a girl believed to be eight years old and a boy believed to be two – were found with stab wounds.

“We are awaiting an update on the condition of the woman and the two-year-old boy,” the force said.

“The eight-year-old girl’s injuries are not life-threatening.”

Police had initially reported that both injured children were girls.

A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.

He was also taken to hospital after becoming unwell, police said, but was discharged after an investigation.

Chief Inspector Lewis Basford, responsible for policing in Barking and Dagenham, said: “This is a truly shocking attack and I would like to thank local residents for their help and patience as we deal with this incident.

“At this early stage we believe those involved knew each other and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.

“A crime scene will remain at the scene for some time while our officers carry out essential work and you will see an increased police presence in the area in the coming days.”

The London The ambulance service and the London air ambulance were also sent to the scene.