Battersea Park Road in London (Picture: Google)
A dog thought to be an XL Bully has been shot dead after mauling people in Battersea last night.
Four men were taken to hospital for injuries caused by the dog, which was killed by armed police at the scene.
A 22-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of having a dog dangerously out of control. Both remain in custody.
A Met spokesman said: ‘Police were called to reports of a dog – described as an XL Bully – that was dangerously out of control and attacking people in the vicinity of Home Road, SW11.
‘Due to the threat posed to the public by the dog, armed officers attended. After assessing the situation, officers took the difficult decision to destroy the dog and it was shot.
‘Four men – all members of the public – were taken to hospital for treatment to injuries sustained during the dog attack. None of their injuries are life-threatening.
‘Enquiries continue to establish the circumstances of the incident.
‘An examination of the dog will take place to establish its specific breed.’
Local MP Marsha de Cordova posted on X: ‘I am deeply concerned to hear about the XL bully dog attack that happened on Battersea Park Road yesterday evening.
‘My thoughts and prayers are with the victims injured in the attack, and for their full recovery. I am in contact with the police and their enquiries are ongoing.”
‘New laws have come into force that make it illegal to own an American XL Bully dog without an exemption certificate. It is vital that there is strong enforcement to make sure owners comply with the legislation.’
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