LONDON: Detectives from the Met?s Counter Terrorism Command are investigating after three police officers were injured in a terrorist incident on Friday night, said a press release from the Metropolitan Police.

?The incident is being treated as terrorism but we will remain open minded while the investigation continues.?

A car deliberately drove at a police van and stopped in front of it in a restricted area on Constitution Hill near Buckingham Palace. After the police officers approached the car and challenged the driver, he reached for a four-foot long sword.

In the ensuing struggle, the officers sustained minor injuries but managed to arrest the attacker.

Two of the police officers were treated at a hospital and discharged later while the third did not require hospital treatment.

The police statement said the man, aged 26 and from the Luton area, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and assault on police.

He was also arrested under the Terrorism Act 2000 and detectives from the police?s counter terrorism command are now leading the investigation into this incident. He remains in custody at a central London police station.

?I would like to pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of these officers who quickly brought this incident under control. Their vigilance, courage and the swiftness of their response demonstrates how our officers are protecting the public at this time,? said Commander Dean Haydon, the head of the Met?s Counter Terrorism Command.

?Officers from the Counter Terrorism Command are now investigating and searches are being carried out in the Luton area,? added Haydon.

The senior police official also said that they believe the man was acting alone and no other suspects are being sought.

?This is a timely reminder that the threat of terrorism in the UK remains severe. The police, together with the security services, are doing everything we can to protect the public and we already have an enhanced policing plan over the Bank Holiday weekend to keep the public safe,? said the commander.