Reports of a minor explosion and “people running” at Southgate station – an incident not believed to be terror-related.
British Transport Police said there were no reports of serious injuries and their enquiries continue at Southgate station which has been closed.
The incident comes as officers investigated a suspicious package.
Police believe the explosion was caused by a faulty drill battery.
London Ambulance Service said they treated three people at the scene for minor injuries while two others were taken to hospital.
A 23 year-old man has been arrested held on suspicion of an act likely to cause an explosion to injure or damage property, and endangering safety on the railway.
The local Cypriot MP Bambos Charalambous for Enfield Southgate had visited Southgate station on the Tuesday night; he issued a statement which confirmed that the “minor explosion” was non-terror related.
“Southgate is still cordoned off after the explosion shortly after 7 pm. @metpoliceuk have confirmed that explosion was non terror related. Sadly there have been some injuries, it seems from the panic. My thoughts are with everyone who has been hurt and a huge thanks to our emergency services.”
British Transport Police tweeted: “Southgate Tube station is currently closed whilst officers respond to a suspicious package.
“Officers are on scene alongside @metpoliceuk. Please avoid the area – we’ll provide updates as soon as we can.”
The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: “Police were called at 7.03pm on 19 June to reports of an explosion and people running at Southgate underground station.
“Met officers remain at the scene along with colleagues from British Transport Police, London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service.
“Cordons are in place and the station is closed.
“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the reported explosion, which appears to have been minor.
“We are not aware of any serious injury.”
The arrested man, who is from Enfield, has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
Photo credit: Sean Salamander/Twitter
