Deadly attacks disrupt Britain ahead of general election

LONDON - Britain was struck again as unidentified attackers driving a van ran over pedestrians and stabbed them on Saturday night in London, leaving at least six people killed.

It came less than two weeks after the Manchester suicide bombing that killed 22 and injured 116 others.

Observers said the attacks may cast shadow on the upcoming general election, scheduled for June 8, as people become more concerned with security than other issues.

ATTACKERS SHOT DEAD

London police said they began to receive reports that a vehicle had struck pedestrians on London Bridge at 22:08 (2108 GMT) on Saturday.

Witnesses said a white van ran into people on a pavement at a high speed, and then three men jumped out of the van and attacked the public with long blades.

"The vehicle continued to drive from London Bridge to Borough Market. The suspects then left the vehicle and a number of people were stabbed," said Mark Rowley, assistant commissioner of London Metropolitan Police.

Borough Market, next to London Bridge, was busy at the weekend night with lots of people enjoying food and drinks in the bars.

Six people were killed and three suspects were shot dead by police, police said early Sunday.

The London Ambulance Service said that more than 30 people were being treated across London following the attacks.

Photos taken on site show that a possible attacker lay on the ground with canisters strapped to his body and dozens of people who were caught up in the attack were escorted to safety by police.

The Counter Terrorism Command is conducting investigation and additional police and officers will be deployed across London, Rowley said.