A housing association has been accused of failing to protect and support staff after an armed intruder forced his way into its south London office.
The incident took place at Clarion Housing Group’s Apollo House in Morden, during a police search for a man who had reportedly produced a firearm during a shoplifting incident at a nearby supermarket.
It is understood the suspect broke through three sets of security doors before confronting employees inside the building.
While the Metropolitan Police has described the initial incident at a nearby supermarket as shoplifting, Clarion said an armed intruder subsequently forced his way into its office building.
What Clarion said
A spokesperson for Clarion said a number of staff were affected by the incident, which was “extremely distressing for all involved”.
“An armed intruder broke through three sets of security doors and entered our Apollo House office,” the spokesperson said.
“We worked closely with the police who were in control of the situation throughout and our senior leaders have reached out directly to offer support and reassurance to those involved.”
“This included signposting to a range of appropriate support services.”
“This was a shocking incident and we are confident the correct action was taken at the time to protect staff.”
Concerns raised
However, concerns have been raised about the company’s handling of the situation.
It has been alleged that Clarion had no evacuation plan in place and did not conduct follow-up welfare checks on staff after the incident.
It has also been alleged that staff were made to wait outside the building while the armed suspect was still believed to be in the area.
The police search
Police said the man, who has been identified as a local 48-year-old, reportedly produced a firearm before fleeing the scene.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “Officers are working at pace to locate a man following a shoplifting at a supermarket in London Road, Morden at around 10:15hrs on Wednesday, 4 November.”
“No injuries were reported.”
“Anyone with information that could assist the search – particularly doorbell or dashcam footage – is asked to contact police, quoting 2059/4NOV.”
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Several people reported a heavy police presence in the area on social media, with some saying they had seen armed officers.
The man remains at large more than two days after the incident.
