Police have said that they are “yet to identify a suspect” after three boys were taken to hospital after a shooting in Orpington.

Officers also said they were keen to challenge misinformation online and that there “is no place for comments that create division and fuel tensions”.

Police were called to reports of a man shot in Otlinge Road at around 10pm yesterday (August 7).

London Ambulance Service crews also attended and found an 18-year-old boy injured.

He was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital where his condition was non-life threatening.

Police carried out all relevant enquiries and found that the shooting took place in Yalding Grove.

While officers were carrying out a search of the area, two 14-year-old boys were also found with gunshot wounds.

The pair were also taken to hospital where their conditions were assessed as non-life threatening.

A crime scene is in place as police enquiries into the circumstances continue.

A spokesperson for Lewisham Police said: “Urgent enquiries into this incident are ongoing, but we are yet to identify a suspect.

“We all have a responsibility to challenge misinformation online.

“There is no place for comments that create division and fuel tensions.”

Cllr Colin Smith, Leader of Bromley Council said “The Police are already well on to this case and need to be given time and space to conclude their investigations.

“Please continue to ignore every irresponsible comment you might read on SM about this incident in the meanwhile.”

Detective Inspector Raymond Sekalongo from Trident said “Tackling violent crime in London remains our absolute focus and reducing shootings is key to that.

“We understand that this incident will cause concern within the community.

“We want to reassure you that we are carrying out fast-time enquiries to ensure that any suspect is apprehended.

“I know that this may cause fear within the community, which is why I will ensure that officers are present within the area to listen to any of your concerns.

“Please do approach them if you need to, they are there to support you.”

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “On Wednesday, 7 August at around 22:00hrs police were called to Otlinge Road, BR5 following reports that a man had been shot.

“Police attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who treated an 18-year-old man before taking him to hospital.

“Police carried out all relevant enquiries and established that the shooting had taken place at Yalding Grove, BR5.

“Two further victims, both aged 14, were found with gunshot wounds whilst officers were carrying out a search of the area.

“The two boys were taken to hospital.

“The three victims have non-life threatening/changing injuries.

“If you have any information then please come forward to police stating CAD8033/07AUG or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.”