On Saturday morning, a team of Metropolitan Police officers successfully rescued around 20 individuals trapped in a burning hostel in Euston, London.

The incident occurred in the early hours when a blaze erupted within the five-storey building.

Responding swiftly, officers entered the smoke-filled structure to conduct search and rescue operations before the arrival of firefighters.

They focused initially on the basement, where several occupants were disoriented and in need of assistance.

Police Sergeant Pete Day actively engaged in extinguishing the flames using fire extinguishers, while Police Constable Luke Uzzell took charge of forcing entry into rooms located in the basement to verify that no one was left behind.

Meanwhile, other officers efficiently searched the remaining floors of the hostel, guiding individuals to safety and directing those requiring medical attention to paramedics who were on the scene shortly after being alerted.

The actions of these officers received commendations from senior officials within the Metropolitan Police Service.

Commander Peter Stevens acknowledged their bravery, stating, "Each and every day Met officers put their lives in danger in order to protect the public and keep the communities they serve safe.

The actions of these officers were outstanding and exemplify the very best of the Met."

Following the incident, three members of the public and nine officers were taken to a hospital due to minor injuries resulting from smoke inhalation.

All those affected have since been discharged after receiving medical care.

According to investigators from the London Fire Brigade, the blaze was determined to be accidental, resulting from a buildup of lint within a tumble dryer.