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US Capitol Is On Lockdown Due To An 'External Security Threat'

US Capitol Is On Lockdown Due To An 'External Security Threat'

A message to everyone inside said that no entry or exit is permitted

Rebecca Shepherd

Rebecca Shepherd

The US Capitol building in Washington D.C. is on lockdown due to an 'external security threat', just two days before Joe Biden will be sworn in.

According to NBC, there was a message conveyed this morning (18 January) which said: "All buildings within the Capitol Complex: External security threat, no entry or exit is permitted, stay away from exterior windows, doors. If outside, seek cover. USCP [United States Capitol Police]."

Another message said there was an 'external security threat located under the bridge on I-295 at First and F Streets SE.'

Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke near the building and the Washington DC Fire Service said it had responded and extinguished a nearby fire.

The service wrote: "#DCsBravest responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: News