Man, 47, arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following two crossbow attacks in Shoreditch

Det Ch Supt James Conway briefing officers in Shoreditch. Photograph: Met Police

A 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after two people were shot with a crossbow in separate attacks in Shoreditch.

A woman, 44, was hit in the head as she crossed a road by Clifton House on 4 March.

The second assault took place on 14 March, with a 20-year-old man left with a neck injury – just 200 feet from where the first victim was struck.

Their injuries were not life-threatening or life-changing and they have both since left hospital.

Last night, at around 11pm, officers investigating the attacks arrested a suspect in Shoreditch.

He was found with a knuckle-duster and a bottle containing an unknown substance.

A search of the man’s address led to the seizure of a crossbow, knives, and other weapons.

The suspect is in custody in east London and both victims are being kept informed.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “I’m acutely aware of the level of concern in the community following these awful attacks.

“Since the first incident, the police response has been immediate and dynamic, with my detectives leading a significant investigation involving CCTV trawls, intelligence and forensic work, whilst my neighbourhood teams have been engaged in public appeals and reassurance patrols.

“We have been strongly supported by our partners, particularly the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

“The arrest last night was a significant development in our investigation, but this remains a complex and ongoing policing operation.

“I can also confirm that our enquiries led to the seizure of another crossbow weapon in the period between the two attacks, which is now being dealt with as part of a separate investigation.

“I’d like to thank local people for their valuable support and would urge anyone still yet to talk to police to do so as soon as possible.

“We have received significant and crucial support from our local communities to date.

“Enhanced numbers of my officers will remain in the area and you can speak with them at any time if you believe you have information that is relevant.”

Officers are keeping an open mind regarding the motive for these attacks and enquiries continue.

If you have information regarding either incident, please call 101 quoting Operation Goldwater. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.