A man has been stabbed near to a polling station.

Police were called to Whalebone Lane South, Dagenham, today (May 2) at about 5.18pm to reports of a man who was stabbed.

Shortly after, a second call was made reporting gun shots in the area.

Emergency services however found a man, 19, with stab injuries.

He was rushed to hospital and remains there in a life-threatening condition.

His next of kin have been informed, the Metropolitan Police said.

A man was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident and remains in custody.

A picture seen by The Post shows a suspect being handled by police near Becontree Methodist Church, which is currently being used as a polling station.

A crime scene is in place at the location and enquiries are ongoing.

Whalebone Lane South is closed both ways from Gray Avenue to Wood Lane.

Diversions are in place including for the 173 and 499 bus routes.

Anyone with information about the incident should call 101 quoting 5857/02MAY. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.