In a statement, the Home Secretary confirmed that Saturday’s stabbing incident on a train in Cambridgeshire is not being considered an act of terrorism. The two suspects apprehended at the scene in Huntingdon are both British-born nationals. Praise was given to the emergency services for their prompt actions, and recognition was given to the courage displayed by both train staff and passengers on the LNER train.
Authorities disclosed that a 32-year-old British man and a 35-year-old man of Caribbean descent, also a British national, are currently in custody. The attack resulted in eleven individuals being injured, with nine sustaining critical wounds on a train bound for London. Following the incident that occurred shortly after the train’s stop in Peterborough, four of the injured have been discharged from the hospital.
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After the distressing event, Shabana Mahmood expressed her sympathy for the victims, their families, and friends. She commended the British Transport Police, Cambridgeshire Police, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, and the East of England Ambulance Service for their swift and professional response that saved lives. The investigation continues, with regular updates being provided by the police.
British Transport Police Superintendent John Loveless referred to the incident as “shocking” and refrained from commenting on the motive behind the stabbings. The first arrest was made within eight minutes of the attack being reported. Of the eleven individuals treated in the hospital, four have been discharged after initially presenting with life-threatening injuries. Mr. Loveless stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest a terrorist motive.
Mr. Loveless emphasized that while a major incident was declared and counter-terrorism authorities initially supported the investigation, there is no indication at this point that the incident is linked to terrorism.
The incident, described as “deeply shocking,” occurred on a train departing from Peterborough station in Cambridgeshire at 7:42 pm. Police reportedly used a Taser on a man wielding a large knife.
The British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed that two individuals have been detained in connection with the attack, which transpired on the 6:25 pm service from Doncaster to London King’s Cross on Saturday.