UK police arrested two suspects following a mass stabbing on a London-bound train late Saturday, leaving 10 people hospitalized, nine with injuries described as “life-threatening.” The attack occurred on a train traveling from Doncaster to London’s King’s Cross Station, a busy route frequently filled with travelers.
Rapid Police Response
Armed police, supported by police cars and ambulances, swarmed Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire after the train was halted. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes, describing passengers hiding in washrooms and some being “stamped on” while trying to escape. A man holding a large knife was seen on the platform and was later tasered and restrained by officers. Counter-terrorism units are assisting the ongoing investigation.
Official Statements
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the incident “appalling” and “deeply concerning.” He offered his thoughts to those affected and thanked emergency services for their rapid response. Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood confirmed the arrest of two individuals. Paul Bristow, mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, described the scenes as “horrendous” and extended his thoughts and prayers to victims.
Emergency Services and Investigation
The East of England Ambulance Service said it deployed a large-scale response, including ambulances, air ambulances, and tactical commanders. LNER, the train operator, closed the railway lines and warned passengers to avoid travel in the area due to major disruption. Police continue to inspect the train, treating it as an active crime scene. Passengers outside the station were assisted with space blankets, according to AFP.
Rising Knife Crime in the UK
Knife crime has been steadily rising in England and Wales since 2011. Starmer has called it a “national crisis” and has pledged government efforts to reduce incidents. Nearly 60,000 knives have been seized or surrendered recently as part of attempts to cut knife crime by half within a decade. While carrying a knife in public carries a sentence of up to four years, the government reported an 18 percent drop in knife murders in the past year.
Context of Recent Attacks
This incident follows several high-profile stabbings in the UK. Earlier this month, a stabbing spree at a Manchester synagogue left two dead, including a victim killed by misdirected police gunfire. Separately, a daylight stabbing in London resulted in one death and two injuries, with the accused appearing in court this week.
