Panic and chaos swept through London's Heathrow Airport on Monday after a sudden, shocking attack involving an irritant spray left multiple people injured. The incident, which unfolded at the busy Terminal 3, prompted a massive armed police response and caused significant travel disruption.
Armed Police Storm Terminal After Spray Attack
The situation escalated rapidly at one of the world's busiest travel hubs. According to reports, an individual or individuals deployed a pepper-spray-style substance in a public area of Terminal 3. The attack caused immediate distress, with 21 people reporting injuries from exposure to the irritant. Eyewitness accounts described scenes of confusion and panic as travellers and airport staff were affected.
In response to the emergency, armed police officers were swiftly deployed to the terminal. They secured the area to prevent further harm and to begin the process of identifying those responsible. The quick containment of the scene was critical to managing the unfolding crisis.
One Suspect in Custody, Hunt for Others Continues
Law enforcement agencies moved quickly to apprehend those believed to be behind the attack. Authorities have confirmed that one suspect is already in custody. However, the investigation remains active, with officers pursuing leads to determine if other individuals were involved in the planning or execution of the incident.
The motive behind the attack is currently under investigation. Security protocols at the airport were immediately activated, leading to a thorough sweep of the affected terminal to ensure no further threats were present.
Travel Chaos and Major Disruptions Follow
The aftermath of the attack led to severe disruptions at Heathrow. Passengers faced massive delays as security checks were intensified and areas were cordoned off for forensic examination. Road closures around the airport terminals further compounded the travel chaos, affecting both departing and arriving passengers.
Airport officials and airlines worked to manage the backlog of flights and assist distressed travellers. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in major transport hubs and the swift response required from security forces. The focus now remains on supporting the injured, completing a thorough investigation, and restoring normal operations at Terminal 3.
