Armed police rushed to Oxford Street last night to reports a gunman was on the loose.
Officers who were called to the scene at around 9.30pm were unable to find a gunman.
However, huge crowds flocked to the busy shopping district and started looting.
Eyewitnesses said gangs of youths attempted to break into a sweet shop, according to The Sun.
Multiple people were arrested on suspicion of affray and taken into custody by officers.
A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “Police called 21:30hrs to report of a man with a firearm in Oxford Street, Westminster.
“Specialist firearms officers deployed immediately & conducted extensive area searches. No suspects located. No reports of any injuries.
“A large crowd gathered at the scene, resulting in some small outbreaks of disorder. A number of people were arrested on suspicion of affray & taken into custody.”
