IPSA Appoints Security Guard Who Intervened in Leicester Square Knife Attack 

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18 March 2025

A security officer who disarmed the suspect in the stabbing of an 11-year-old child in Leicester Square has been appointed as Frontline Ambassador and Champion of the International Professional Security Association.

Abdullah Tanoli was working as a security officer at the TWG tea shop in Leicester Square on 12 August 2024 when he heard screams and “jumped on” a suspect who allegedly had a young girl in a headlock and had stabbed her eight times.

Abdullah and some of his colleagues then gave first aid to the 11-year-old Australian girl, who was with her mother, before police arrived. A 32-year-old man was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with attempted murder. The child was rushed to hospital where she has since had plastic surgery after receiving wounds to her face, shoulder, wrist and neck during the alleged attack. 

29-year-old Abdullah originally came to the UK to study for a master's degree in project management after growing up in Abbottabad, Northern Pakistan. He said that he started working in the security industry when he failed to find work as a project manager. 

He will now work with the International Professional Security Association (IPSA) to give a voice to frontline security officers and raise awareness of their critical role in protecting us all.

“Reflecting on the events at Leicester Square last summer, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to continue serving the public, alongside my fellow frontline security officers and professionals, to ensure that we are always vigilant and prepared to act swiftly in the face of danger. I have always believed that our role goes beyond just reacting to threats - it is about prevention, awareness, and constant readiness to protect those around us."

–Abdullah Tanoli

Frontline Ambassador, IPSA

Abdullah said: “It is an incredible honour to be appointed as Frontline Ambassador and Champion of the International Professional Security Association (IPSA). This recognition not only humbles me but reinforces my commitment to the security profession and the important work that security professionals do every day to protect our communities.

“Reflecting on the events at Leicester Square last summer, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to continue serving the public, alongside my fellow frontline security officers and professionals, to ensure that we are always vigilant and prepared to act swiftly in the face of danger. I have always believed that our role goes beyond just reacting to threats - it is about prevention, awareness, and constant readiness to protect those around us.

“As Frontline Ambassador and Champion, I am committed to advocating for the safety and well-being of those in our communities, raising awareness of the vital role that security officers and professionals play, and inspiring future generations to join us in this profession. Together, we can make our world our safer place and create a stronger, more secure future.

“Thank you to IPSA for this incredible opportunity. I look forward to working with all of you to make a meaningful difference.”

CEO of IPSA, Satia Rai added: “It is with great honour and immense respect that we announce the appointment of Abdullah as the new Frontline Ambassador and Champion at International IPSA. This appointment recognises Abdullah’s exceptional bravery, commitment, and professionalism in the face of adversity.

“Last summer, during the tragic events at Leicester Square in the UK, Abdullah demonstrated extraordinary courage and presence of mind by successfully foiling an attack, preventing further harm to countless individuals. His quick thinking and selfless actions not only exemplify the very best of our industry, but they also highlight the importance of proactive security measures in safeguarding our communities.

“At IPSA, our mission is to give our frontline security officers a voice, ensuring their dedication, skill, and bravery are recognised and valued. Abdullah’s appointment is a key step in helping us achieve that mission. His leadership will raise awareness of the critical work being done by those on the front lines of security and will help us attract and retain the next generation of security professionals, ensuring that the industry continues to grow, evolve, and thrive.

“We look forward to working closely with Abdullah as he represents the values and commitment of IPSA, and I am confident that he will make a lasting impact on our industry and beyond.

"On behalf of the entire IPSA team, I congratulate Abdullah on this well-deserved role and welcome him to our Exec Board.”

Picture: a photograph of Abdullah. Image Credit: IPSA

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 18 March 2025

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