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18th Jan 2021

Biden inauguration rehearsal paused as Capitol building goes into lockdown

The US Capitol Building has been put into lockdown due to a 'security threat' that put a rehearsal for Joe Biden's inauguration on pause

Reuben Pinder

Joe Biden’s inauguration rehearsal was suspended

The US Capitol building has been put into lockdown due to a ‘security threat’ just two days before president-elect Joe Biden is due to be inaugurated.

An emergency announcement is being played on repeat through the PA system in the Capitol, according to reporters at the scene.

A rehearsal for Joe Biden’s inauguration has also been suspended.

The Capitol building was attacked almost two weeks ago by Donald Trump supporters, who stormed into the building as Joe Biden’s election victory was in the process of being certified.

Five people died during or shortly after the riot.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke near the Capitol building, which the local fire service have now extinguished.

More violence is expected on Wednesday, with all 50 US states on high alert as large swathes of Trump supporters continue their fight to overturn the result of the election despite having no evidence of any illegal activity or voter fraud.