A “controlled explosion” has been carried out by Metropolitan police officers outside the US embassy in Nine Elms, London. It followed reports of a suspicious package outside the embassy.

A spokesperson for the Met said: “We’re aware of speculation online about an incident in the vicinity of the US embassy in Nine Elms.

“Cordons are in place in the area as a precaution while officers investigate a suspect package.”

They later added: “We can confirm that the ‘loud bang’ reported in the area a short time ago was a controlled explosion carried out by officers.”

It is understood inquiries are continuing and cordons will remain in place for the time being.

The US embassy wrote on X: “Local authorities are investigating a suspicious package outside the U.S. Embassy in London. Met Police are present and have closed Ponton Road out of an abundance of caution. We will provide further updates when available.”