A man was reportedly threatening to harm residents inside a home before being shot dead by armed police in Southwark.

Police were called to a property in Bywater Place shortly before 5am today (January 30) to reports of a man trying to break into a home.

The man, believed to be in his 30s, was reported to be armed with weapons including a crossbow, and threatening to harm residents inside the address.

Officers tried to speak to the man, but were threatened, so armed officers were called to the location.

The man managed to break inside the property so armed police responded and opened fire.

Emergency services at the scene provided first aid, but the man died at the scene shortly after.

Police enquiries are ongoing to inform his next of kin.

Two occupants received minor injuries during the incident.

Bywater Place can be seen partially cordoned off by police in pictures as the incident is dealt with.

A forensics team is also at the scene and have erected a tent as they investigate.

The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has been informed.

A referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) which has begun an independent investigation.

Detective Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh, responsible for policing Southwark, said:

“My thoughts are with all those affected by this incident.

"I understand the local community will be concerned at the events that have taken place this morning.

“We will fully support the IOPC investigation into the full circumstances of what happened."