One man has died after paramedics could not save his life at the scene and nine have been injured in a series of stabbings across three locations in Croydon on Friday, February 5.

The Metropolitan Police said they responded to five reports of stabbings within three hours.

Calls were made to Chapman Road, Wisbeach Road, Dingwall Road and two were made to hospitals in South London.

The force said there was no evidence that all ten stabbings were connected.

Two of the injured victims are said to have life threatening wounds.

Two men have been arrested after police were called to several different reports of stabbings between 6.56pm and 9.12pm on Friday.

A 38-year-old was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, another man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of affray and later taken to hospital after suffering injuries.

A section 60 order, which grants police additional stop and search powers was put in place across Croydon until 8am on Saturday, February 6.

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.”

Arrowsmith added: “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.”

He urged anyone with information to come forward as soon as possible: “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.”