A Saudi man in his 40s was stabbed during an attempted robbery in Mayfair, with a 58-year-old man arrested at the scene, police said.
Officers were called to Berkeley Square at about 9.38pm on Thursday 3 September after reports of a stabbing. The victim was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital, where his injuries were assessed as non-life-threatening.
The arrested man was held on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, possession of an offensive weapon and attempted robbery. He was also taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Police believe the Saudi national may have been targeted for a backpack containing a luxury watch, although the item was not visible. No property was taken during the incident.
The Metropolitan Police said the attack appeared to be an isolated incident and that there was currently nothing to suggest an ongoing risk to the wider public.
London Ambulance Service said an ambulance crew, paramedics in rapid-response cars and an incident response officer were sent to Berkeley Square. The first paramedic arrived in less than five minutes, and the victim was taken to a major trauma centre as a priority.
The Saudi Embassy in London said it was monitoring the victim’s condition and liaising with British authorities over the investigation. It urged Saudi citizens to remain vigilant and avoid carrying valuable possessions in public places.
Berkeley Square is an upmarket Mayfair location lined with Georgian townhouses and home to the private members’ club Annabel’s.
