SINCE pro-Trump rioters stormed the US Capitol on January 6, the Capitol Police have been on high alert for any suspicious individual or activity around the government building.

On August 19, Capitol Police investigated an "active bomb threat" outside the government building as staffers in the Madison building were told to shelter in place.

Is the US Capitol on lockdown?

The US Capitol was placed on lockdown as a "possible explosive truck" parked near the Library of Congress sparked evacuations.

In a tweet, the US Capitol Police called the incident an “active bomb threat investigation".

Law enforcement officials said investigators were at the scene and working to determine whether the device was an operable explosive.

CNN reported that negotiators were being sent to engage with a man in the truck and claiming that he has an explosive device inside.

According to ABC, the suspect was reportedly holding something in his hand.

Metropolitan Police told The Sun that they are assisting over a suspicious package or bomb threat.

Capitol police are asking people to "stay away from this area" while the investigation is ongoing.

According to the ATF’s Twitter, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms are assisting Capitol Police.

What have witnesses said about the incident?

Journalists on the scene reportedly saw several police cars alongside an armored truck speeding towards the political hub.

Those from the Cannon building were told to "remain calm" and relocate to the Longworth House Office Building "using the underground tunnels."

Congressional staffers received an alert saying that occupants should "remain calm and move in a safe manner to the exits," but to not use exits on the west side.

The Supreme Court was evacuated alongside the Cannon House Office building, as individuals were sent to the Longworth office building.

Are there any lawmakers at the US Capitol?

Congress is currently in recess, as each year, lawmakers rest for the month of August.

The recess started the second week of August and runs through the full week of Labor Day, September 6.

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