LONDON MAN ARRESTED AFTER HEATHROW AIRPORT EVACUATION
In a dramatic turn of events, a man has been taken into custody on suspicion of possessing CS gas and creating chaos at Heathrow Airport. The incident led to the partial evacuation of Terminal 4 on Monday evening, forcing hundreds of people out of the premises around 17:00 BST. After three tense hours, passengers were finally allowed back in.
Despite no hazardous materials being found, the Metropolitan Police made a startling discovery of a canister of CS spray, triggering a reaction among those present at the airport. London Ambulance Service quickly tended to and discharged 20 individuals who experienced irritation due to the exposure.
Scotland Yard has clarified that there is no indication of terrorism involvement in this case. The 57-year-old suspect remains under police custody as investigations continue. According to a statement from the Met, a search led to the uncovering of the suspected CS spray, which caused discomfort to numerous individuals.
“Approximately 20 people sought medical attention after being affected by the (presumed) CS spray,” the police force reported. “Thankfully, there were no severe or life-threatening injuries as a result.”
CS gas, a synthetic chemical irritant, induces a burning sensation in the eyes and prompts tearing. It is commonly used by law enforcement in the UK as a temporary incapacitant spray to control potentially dangerous individuals.
The situation at Heathrow gradually returned to normalcy as the airport resumed operations for passengers shortly after 20:00. Airport officials expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the evacuation. Flight data indicated minimal disruptions to arrivals and departures at Terminal 4 during the evacuation period. — BBC
