Armed police officers assigned to protect London Mayor Sadiq Khan are under investigation after a bag containing firearms and a Taser was reportedly left on a street in south London. The Metropolitan Police confirmed it is reviewing the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, March 31, and has removed five officers from frontline duties.

The bag was discovered on a kerbside at approximately 9:40 PM that evening by a member of the public. According to the individual, Jordan Griffiths, his pregnant partner initially noticed the bag in the road. She reportedly nudged it with her foot, finding it unexpectedly heavy. Griffiths subsequently retrieved the bag, carrying it inside before opening it to reveal its contents.

Inside the bag were a Heckler & Koch MP5 semi-automatic carbine, a Glock pistol, a Taser, and ammunition. Griffiths expressed shock and concern regarding the potential danger, noting the proximity of his pregnant partner.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed they received a call from a member of the public reporting the discovery. Officers were dispatched and arrived at the scene within seven minutes, safely recovering the items.

A spokesperson for the Met stated that the incident has been referred to the force's Directorate of Professional Standards. The preliminary assessment suggests the bag was misplaced by on-duty officers a short time before its discovery. The police are conducting an urgent review of the circumstances.

A spokesperson for Mayor Khan described the event as "a very serious incident" and indicated that the referral to the Directorate of Professional Standards was appropriate. The spokesperson emphasized the need for the Met to implement measures ensuring a similar lapse does not happen again. Mayor Khan, who has 24-hour police protection, secured a third term as London mayor in 2024.