One woman has been killed in a mass stabbing in Russell Square, central London that has left five others injured.

Armed Metropolitan Police officers arrested a 19-year-old man shortly before 11pm on Wednesday evening after he was subdued with a Taser. Authorities are investigating possible links to terrorism, but say that mental health may play a "significant factor".

The injured victims were taken to hospital, and their condition remains unknown. The female victim, who police said was in her 60s, died shortly after officers arrived at the scene.

"This was a tragic incident resulting in the death of one woman and five others being injured," said Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley. "Early indications suggest that mental health was a factor in this horrific attack. However we are keeping an open mind regarding the motive and terrorism remains one line of inquiry being explored."

In pictures: Russell Square stabbing Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Russell Square stabbing In pictures: Russell Square stabbing A police forensic officer at work in Russell Square, central London, after a knife attack in which a woman in her 60s was killed and five people were injured. PA In pictures: Russell Square stabbing A police forensic officer at the scene in Russell Square, central London PA In pictures: Russell Square stabbing A private ambulance leaves Russell Square in London early on August 4, 2016, after a woman in her 60s was killed during a knife attack AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Russell Square stabbing Police at the scene of a stabbing attack in Russell Square in central London on August 4, 2016 AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Russell Square stabbing A police officer lays flowers left by a member of the public close to the scene where one women died and several people were injured in a knife attack in Russell Square EPA In pictures: Russell Square stabbing The police cordon Russell Square in central London on August 4, 2016, AFP/Getty Images

The suspect is being held in police custody at a London hospital.

Mr Rowley said Londoners should expect heightened police presence – including armed officers – as a precautionary measure. According to eyewitnesses, a forensics team has erected a tent along Southampton Row.

The Metropolitan Police Service's Homicide and Major Crime Command is currently investigating the scene at Russell Square – a busy area near the British Museum and University College London.

Fears of terrorist connections come in the wake of high profile attacks by lone men in Nice, France, and Orlando, Florida, where seemingly mentally disturbed attackers also claim allegiance to Isis.