A person has been stabbed and four others arrested amid reports of a "large disturbance" in Orpington. 

Police in Bromley, who later confirmed details of the stabbing, announced their presence in the St Paul's Cray area on Monday afternoon via Twitter.

In a series of posts, a spokesperson for the borough police force said they had attended what was described as a "large disturbance" in Orpington before later confirming that "violence" had taken place:

"Large Disturbance in Orpington. Officers are currently on scene dealing with a crowd of people after reports of a male being detained for stealing by members of the public is causing a large group to form. A male has been arrested and investigations are ongoing.

"Officers are dealing with calls to a group of males with weapons close to Lamberhurst Close. Officers are currently searching for these males as witnesses have stated they have jumped into gardens. If you see someone in your garden, do not engage with them and please call 999," the first two posts from police on the incident read.

Responding to a request from News Shopper, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed a male had been stabbed: 

"Police were called at 16:30hrs on Monday, 30 August to reports of a male stabbed at Longbury Drive, Orpington.

"Officers and London Ambulance Service [LAS] attended.

"At the scene a male, no further details, was found suffering stab wounds to the leg.

"The injured male was taken by LAS to a south London hospital. We await an update on his condition.

"Four males, no further details, were arrested on suspicion of affray. They were taken to south London police stations. Enquiries are ongoing.

"Anyone who witnessed this incident or has footage or information should call police on 101 or Tweet @MetCC quoting 4711/30AUG.

"To remain 100% anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers_uk.org." 

London Ambulance Service told News Shopper: 

"We were called at 4.40pm today (30 August) to reports of an incident on Longbury Drive, Orpington.

"We sent an ambulance crew, who treated a person at the scene and took them to a hospital."

Around 5.12pm, Bromley MPS meanwhile announced a Section 60 order, giving officers heightened powers in the areas covered as they elevated their response to the apparent violence:

"Section 60 Authorised! From 16:55 - 04:55 hours an increased use of stop and search powers has been authorised due to violence in the area.

"This affects the wards of Cray East, Cray West, Farnborough, Petts Wood, Chelsfield and Pratts Bottom."